Why more men than women die from melanoma

Blokes & Melanoma

Of the estimated 1200 Australians who will die of melanoma in 2008, about 2/3 (800) of them will be men.

Why men? Part of it is because men tend to get more [ultraviolet] exposure because of their jobs, part of it is that they use sunscreen and other UV protective behaviours less, and part of it is later detection. 

Many male melanoma patients come in only after being nagged by family members, and indeed, some studies suggest that blokes, particularly of the younger generation, will wait up to 12 MONTHS or more before seeking medical advice on a mole that is worrying THEM.

The good news: When a skin tumor is caught early, the vast majority of cases—even if its melanoma—are curable.

Thats why, if you are a bloke and you are worried about a mole, or your wife, mum or partner is hassling you to get one checked, you should act - it might save you another ear bashing, and it could save your life.  Contact your doctor or book with MoleMap online or on 1800 MOLEMAP (1800 665 362).