Incidence and mortality data from cutaneous melanoma in Trentino: registry-based study

The province of Trento has been the target of health campaigns for early diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma for 30 years.

To evaluate incidence and mortality data of skin melanoma in the province from January 1992 to December 2001.

The study is based on the provincial skin cancer registry and the regional mortality registry. Standardized incidence and mortality rates were computed, and time trends were evaluated. Incidence rates were modeled using Poisson regression.

Five hundred fifty-four melanomas were diagnosed (226 in males and 328 in females). No period effect was revealed. Incidence rates in females were about 1.24 times those in males. No significant trend in mortality rates was observed.

We examined incidence and mortality data of cutaneous melanoma during a 10-year period and failed to find any significant trend. It seems we have reached a plateau after many years of continuous, intensive health campaigns.