2023 skin cancer projections: Amid a decreasing caseload, deaths creep higher
Facts at your Fingertips
By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor , September 1, 2023
The latest data from the American Cancer Society (ACS) are in — and offer new insight into the impact of skin cancer on U.S. public health. Each year, the ACS estimates the number of new cancer diagnoses and deaths in the United States by compiling the most recent data on population-based cancer occurrence. This year, the ACS anticipates 1.9 million new cancer cases and 609,820 cancer deaths, marking little change from 2022. However, in contrast with other leading causes of death, ACS historical data indicate that the U.S. cancer rate has continued to decline from 2019 to 2020 (by 1.5%), contributing to a 33% overall reduction since its peak in 1991.
New cases of melanoma and non-epithelial skin cancer are projected to decrease in 2023, while related deaths are estimated to slightly increase. Men continue to remain particularly vulnerable, accounting for 60% of all new cases, and 68% of all anticipated deaths due to skin cancer. For a detailed breakdown of the ACS’s 2023 projected melanoma and non-epithelial skin cancer incidence, see the graphic below.
