9947
0
Posted on Apr 21, 2008, 8 p.m.
By Jeanelle Topping
Patients who have melanoma on their scalp or neck are less likely to survive for five to ten years than those with skin cancer on other sites, according to a new report.
Patients who have melanoma on their scalp or neck are less likely to survive for five to ten years than those with skin cancer on other sites, according to a new report.
A study published in the latest issue of Archives of Dermatology suggests that survival rates are lower among patients with scalp and neck melanoma.
The report stated: "Understanding the role of anatomic site in melanoma survival is important for public health messages on skin awareness and sun protection.
"Moreover, because the role of screening in melanoma is considered important for early detection, it is useful to clarify those characteristics with prognostic significance."
Data analysis found that patients with melanoma on their neck or scalp died at 1.84 times the rate of those with melanoma on their arms or legs.
While rates for most other cancers decline, the number of people diagnosed with melanoma continues to rise.
According to the National Cancer Institute, it is estimated that there will be 8,420 deaths from melanoma in the US in 2008.
