Skin cancer diagnoses in Saxony have multiplied since 2005

Skin cancer diagnoses in Saxony have been on the rise for years. According to the Barmer health insurance company, the baby boomer generations and older age groups are particularly affected due to UV damage in childhood and adolescence. According to their latest medical report, diagnoses of black skin cancer more than doubled from 8,100 to around 16,800 by 2023, while diagnoses of white skin cancer more than tripled from around 32,000 to around 98,000. Twice as many women between the ages of 50 and 59 were diagnosed as women of the same age between 1946 and 1955.

"Severe sunburns at a younger age leave permanent damage," said Barmer's regional managing director Monika Welfens. They are the long-term consequences of prolonged unprotected sunbathing or visits to the solarium. Careless or unsuspecting exposure to UV rays, especially in the 1980s to 1990s, can still take revenge decades later. "The skin never forgets." With increasing age, early detection is therefore important in order to be able to treat diseases successfully.

More men than women now affected

According to Barmer, skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Bavaria. According to the doctors' report, more men were affected by black skin cancer than women in 2023. White skin cancer, which is diagnosed much more frequently, also affected more men than women.

"A further increase in skin cancer diagnoses is to be expected in the coming years," said Welfens. The reasons for this include behavioral patterns at a young age, increased life expectancy and the growing number of very old people. While the risk of developing the disease is significantly higher in men aged 70 and over, it is decreasing in people under 40, especially those born after 1980.

Barmer sees a rethink among younger generations

Barmer attributes this development to a growing awareness among parents of the dangers of sunbathing and tanning beds. "While tanned skin was still considered attractive in the 80s and 90s, a rethink is taking hold today," said Welfens. Parents are paying more attention to their children's sun protection and protecting them better.

Regular screenings can help to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Sun cream with a high sun protection factor, long-sleeved clothing, sun hats and avoiding direct sunlight are therefore essential, Welfens recommended. In addition, artificial UV radiation such as in tanning beds should be avoided and the skin should be checked regularly for changes. "There is no such thing as a healthy tan."