Skin cancer diagnoses in Saxony have significantly increased since 2005. - Increase in Skin Cancer Diagnoses Observed in Saxony Since 2005
Skin Cancer Surges in Saxony Over the Past 18 Years
In the Free State of Saxony, diagnoses of skin cancer have risen sharply since 2005, affecting the baby boomer and older age groups disproportionately. According to the health insurance company Barmer, the number of black skin cancer cases has almost doubled, from around 8,100 to nearly 16,800 since 2005, while white skin cancer diagnoses have more than tripled, from approximately 32,000 to almost 98,000 by 2023. Among women aged 50 to 59, the number of cases has doubled compared to those in the same age group of the 1946 to 1955 cohorts.
"Prolonged exposure to UV rays in youth leads to lasting damage," said Monika Welfens, regional manager for Barmer. This harm can stem from extended periods of unprotected sunbathing or regular solarium use during the 1980s and 1990s, which could still affect people decades later. "The skin retains the memory of such exposure." With increasing age, early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Compared to women, men are more frequently diagnosed with skin cancer in Saxony. Both black and white skin cancer diagnoses are more prevalent among men than women, even when considering the former's rarity.
Skin cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer in Saxony, according to Barmer's data. The company predicts an ongoing increase in diagnoses, citing lifestyle choices from younger years, an aging population, and the growing number of very elderly people as potential factors. Among those aged 70 and above, the risk of illness is significantly higher, though it decreases among those under 40, particularly those born after 1980.
Barmer credits the shift in attitudes among parents for the rising trend, noting that the emphasis on tanning has decreased compared to the 1980s and 1990s. Parents are reportedly taking a more proactive approach to protecting their children from the dangers of UV radiation.
Regular screenings, sunscreen, protective clothing, hats, and avoiding direct sunlight can help reduce the risk of skin cancer, according to Welfens. Artificial UV radiation, such as that from solariums, should also be avoided, and individuals should regularly check their skin for changes. "There is no such thing as a healthy tan."
- Saxony
- Barmer
- Skin cancer
- Women
- Men
Several factors are likely contributing to the significant increase in skin cancer diagnoses in Saxony. These may include a rise in UV radiation exposure over lifetimes, improvements in early detection and diagnostic tools, population aging, and increased skin cancer awareness campaigns. As the population continues to age, the incidence of skin cancer is expected to rise further. However, genetic susceptibility may play a role in individual cases.
- Barmer, the health insurance company in Saxony, reports that skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in the region.
- Among women aged 50 to 59, the number of skin cancer cases in Saxony has doubled compared to those in the same age group of the 1946 to 1955 cohorts.
- While women are less frequently diagnosed with skin cancer in Saxony compared to men, both black and white skin cancer diagnoses are more prevalent among men than women, even when considering the former's rarity.
- Barmer has noted a shift in attitudes among parents in Saxony, with an increased proactive approach to protecting children from the dangers of UV radiation.
- Regularly checking skin for changes, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, hats, and avoiding direct sunlight can help reduce the risk of skin cancer, according to Monika Welfens of Barmer.
