# Trends in Cutaneous Melanoma in Nova Scotia With a Focus on 2007 to 2019

## TL;DR

This study examines trends in melanoma cases in Nova Scotia from 1992 to 2019, highlighting rising rates and the importance of early detection and sun safety.

## Contribution

The study provides updated insights into melanoma trends in Nova Scotia, emphasizing the need for public and physician education on early detection.

## Key findings

- Invasive melanoma incidence increased by 2.7% per year since 1992, while in situ disease increased at 4.9% per year.
- The majority of invasive melanoma cases (71.5%) were diagnosed at stage I, indicating early detection in many cases.
- Survival for late-stage melanoma has shown modest improvement over the study period.

## Abstract

Melanoma represents a significant public health challenge in Canada, contributing to the deaths of over 1000 individuals each year. Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia were previously noted to have the highest incidence rates of melanoma in Canada.

Data from patients diagnosed with or dying from melanoma was extracted from the Nova Scotia Cancer Registry. TNM stage was available for cases diagnosed 2007 to 2017. Incidence (1992-2019) and mortality (1992-2021) rates were examined using Join Point Trend Analysis Software.

Between 2007 and 2019, 2450 cases of in situ and 4063 cases of invasive melanoma were documented, of which 52.8% were male. The largest number of cases was from the 60- to 79-year age group. The most common site in females was upper limbs (in situ) and lower limbs (invasive), and for males, face, and neck (in situ), and trunk (invasive). The majority of invasive cases (71.5%) were diagnosed at stage I. Invasive melanoma incidence has been increasing by 2.7% per year since 1992, while in situ disease has increased at a greater rate (4.9% per year). The current estimate of 92% for 5 years of net survival has not changed appreciably over the same period. Survival for late-stage melanoma has shown a modest improvement for patients diagnosed over the period.

With increasing rates of melanoma in Nova Scotia, there is a need for informed education, directed at the public and physicians, around pigmented skin lesions. This would allow the patient to detect atypical melanocytic lesions at an early stage. Sun safety practices in Nova Scotia should continue to be encouraged.