Changing Trends in the Epidemiology of Malignant Melanoma: Gender Differences and Their Implications for Public Health

A difference in trends in mortality from malignant melanoma between the sexes was demonstrated. Men are an important target group for preventive efforts despite their lower incidence of melanoma. They have a higher mortality rate which is increasing, less knowledge about appropriate primary and secondary preventive measures, present later with disease and respond less to traditional health education approaches. The findings have implications for the planning of primary and secondary prevention programmes.