Melanoma in a Colombian population: a survival study

Background: Melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer, presents significant challenges globally. This study examines survival factors among patients treated at a high-complexity oncology center in Colombia's coffee-growing region. Methods: Records from 2010 to 2021 were analyzed, capturing socio-demographics, clinical variables and survival outcomes via Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression. Results: Among 766 patients, factors influencing survival included sex, TNM stage, diagnostic stage, ulceration, metastasis, Breslow thickness ≥1 mm and positive nodes. Age, ulceration, distant stage at diagnosis and Breslow thickness ≥1 mm were associated with mortality. Conclusion: Colombian melanoma patients exhibit lower survival rates compared with global trends. Key survival determinants align with international literature. Enhanced photoprotection and early detection initiatives are imperative.