The global burden of skin cancer: A longitudinal analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study, 1990–2017

Abstract

Background Despite efforts toward the earlier detection and prevention of skin cancer, the prevalence of skin cancers continues to increase. Identifying trends in skin cancer burdens among populations can lead to impactful and sustainable interventions. Methods We assessed the global trends in skin cancer from 1990 to 2017 in 195 countries worldwide through the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2017 database. Results The rate of change in skin cancers between 1990 to 2017 varied among countries. Squamous cell carcinomas increased by 310% during this time, the highest among any neoplasm tracked by the GBD. Men experienced greater age-specific prevalence rates of keratinocyte carcinoma across all ages ( P < .05). Women had a greater prevalence of melanoma until approximately age 50 years, after which the trend reversed until age 85 years. Men experienced greater age-specific death rates across all ages. The disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of melanoma and keratinocyte carcinoma increased exponentially with age ( P < .05). Conclusion The incidence, prevalence, and DALYs of skin cancers are increasing disproportionately among different demographic groups. As a worldwide epidemiological assessment, the GBD 2017 provides frequently updated measures of the skin cancer burden, which may help to direct resources and allocate funding to close the gap in global skin cancer disparities.