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Is obesity a risk factor for melanoma?
Yuval Arbel1, Yifat Arbel2, Amichai Kerner3
1Sir Harry Solomon School of Economics and Management, Western Galilee College, Derech Hamichlalot, 2412101, Acre, Israel. Yuval.arbel@gmail.com.
BMC Cancer
|February 23, 2023
Summary
Obesity (BMI ≥30) showed a negative correlation with melanoma incidence across US states. This suggests focusing skin cancer screening on Caucasian individuals with a BMI less than 30.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Melanoma is a significant public health concern.
- Obesity prevalence is increasing globally.
- The relationship between obesity and melanoma incidence requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the association between obesity (BMI ≥30) and melanoma prevalence in US states.
- To explore the potential for defining a new melanoma risk group to improve early detection and patient survival.
Main Methods:
- A US statewide cohort study utilizing data from 2011-2017.
- Analysis of annual new melanoma cases per 100,000 persons, adjusted for age.
- Quadratic regression analysis incorporating UV radiation levels as a control variable.
Main Results:
- A negative correlation was observed between obesity and melanoma incidence.
- This association was particularly evident in the Caucasian population.
- The study identified a potential high-risk subgroup for targeted prevention.
Conclusions:
- Continued emphasis on primary melanoma prevention, including photo protection awareness, is crucial.
- Secondary prevention through skin screening should be promoted across all Body Mass Index (BMI) ranges.
- Advanced secondary prevention strategies should target high-risk Caucasian individuals with BMI < 30.
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