Population-level trends in melanoma burden, stage at diagnosis, and indirect costs in Croatia: a descriptive analysis

Croatia has among the highest melanoma mortality rates in the European Union. This study examined temporal trends in melanoma stage at diagnosis, disease burden, and indirect costs in Croatia.

Population-level melanoma incidence data from the Croatian Cancer Registry were analyzed for 2003-2007, 2008-2012, and 2013-2019. Stage distribution and mean annual case numbers were assessed for localized, regional, metastatic, and unknown-stage disease. Disease burden indicators (disability-adjusted life years [DALY], years of life lost [YLL], years lost to disability [YLD]) and indirect costs were evaluated for individuals aged <60 years in 2000, 2010, and 2019. Analyses were descriptive; no formal statistical testing was performed.

Localized melanoma rose from 55% to 68%, while metastatic disease declined from 17% to 8%. Mean annual localized cases more than doubled, whereas metastatic case counts remained stable. DALYs and YLLs decreased by 19% and 21%, respectively, while YLDs increased. Annual indirect costs declined, with cost savings of €8.3 million (DALY method) and €8.4 million (YLL method).

Declining DALYs, YLLs, and indirect costs suggest improving melanoma outcomes in Croatia, potentially reflecting earlier detection and therapeutic innovation, and underscore the importance of sustained investment in integrated melanoma control strategies.