Melanoma
The most serious form skin cancer accounts for only a small percentage of all skin cancers—but it causes 75% of skin cancer deaths.
An estimated 60,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed each year in the United States—about 5% of all new cancer cases. Eight thousand Americans die each year from the disease.
For decades, the incidence has been increasing, although that may be the result of more testing. And some recent research suggests that the number of new cases has leveled off in the past few years.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.