Cutaneous melanomas represent 10% of skin cancers and have a high metastatic potential, according to the latest Panorama of cancers in France (2022 edition) published by the National Cancer Institute (Inca), which notes that “the increase in number of cutaneous melanomas since the 1980s is the result of increasing exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. »
Screening and diagnosis are particularly important since the standardized 5-year net survival rate of people diagnosed (between 2010 and 2015) is high: 91% for men and 94% for women.
Cutaneous melanoma
“Diagnosis of skin cancer is a comprehensive visual examination to identify suspicious spots or moles. For people at risk, it is recommended to carry out a self-examination of the skin every 3 months and to be examined by a dermatologist once a year, but also in the event of a doubtful lesion or the appearance of a brown spot, evolving or whose appearance has changed. Cutaneous melanoma has a good prognosis if detected early enough. Late diagnosis, on the other hand, reduces the chances of recovery because this cancer has a high metastatic potential”, explains the Inca, who recalls that “UV radiation is the first cause of skin cancer, in particular melanoma. To limit the risks, it is essential to protect yourself from the sun and avoid tanning booths. » .