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FAU study finds persistent sex, race, and ethnic disparities in melanoma among Florida seniors

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Skin Cancer in Florida: A Persistent Gender Gap Among Older Adults

New research from Florida Atlantic University reveals stark disparities in skin cancer outcomes among the state's older residents, with men facing a significantly higher death rate than women.

Key Findings

A study by the Schmidt College of Medicine analyzed skin cancer incidence and mortality among Florida residents aged 65 and older, using CDC WONDER data for diagnoses (2018–2021) and deaths (2018–2023).

Older men experienced roughly twice as many skin cancer-related deaths as women across all years.

While overall incidence and mortality remained stable during the study period, the sex gap persisted. Non-Hispanic populations had higher diagnosis and death rates than Hispanic populations, with melanoma being most frequent among white residents.

Incidence was lowest in 2020, followed by a rebound in 2021—a pattern consistent with pandemic-related healthcare disruptions.

Contributing Factors

Researchers identified multiple drivers behind the disparities:

  • Lower rates of sun-protective behaviors and skin self-examinations among men
  • Higher cumulative lifetime UV exposure in Florida
  • Possible biological sex differences in immune function affecting cancer progression
  • Variations in access to dermatologic care, health literacy, and detection disparities across racial/ethnic groups

Senior author Dr. Lea Sacca stated: "Our findings suggest that skin cancer in Florida is driven not only by ultraviolet exposure, but also by behavioral patterns, biological factors and persistent gaps in prevention and early detection – particularly among older men."

Sacca noted that these disparities "cannot be fully explained by UV exposure alone" and pointed to "missed opportunities in prevention and early detection."

Context

The study was published in the Journal of Geriatric Oncology. Researchers emphasize the need for tailored prevention strategies and culturally responsive education—especially given that Florida has the second-highest melanoma incidence rate in the U.S.