Sharp Rise in Skin Cancer Cases Linked to Past UV Exposure

New data reveals a significant increase in skin cancer diagnoses in Germany, attributed to insufficient sun protection in the 1970s and 1980s.

Skin cancer diagnoses in Germany have more than doubled since 2005, with 417,400 cases of malignant melanoma and 1.8 million cases of non-melanotic skin cancer reported in 2023.
The rise is partly due to demographic changes, with an aging population more prone to skin cancer, though younger patients are also affected.
UV exposure during childhood and adolescence in the 1970s and 1980s, when sun protection was less effective, is a major factor in the increase.
Improved early detection since 2008, when skin cancer screenings became available for individuals over 35, has also contributed to higher diagnosis rates.
Experts stress the importance of monitoring skin changes and using effective sun protection to reduce future risks.