Skin cancer, once relatively rare among South Koreans, has surged sevenfold over the past two decades.
A study led by Professor Kwon Soon Hyo from the Department of Dermatology at Kangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital analyzed data from the Central Cancer Registry spanning 1999 to 2019. The study revealed that the number of skin cancer patients in South Korea skyrocketed from 1,255 in 1999 to 8,778 in 2019, marking an approximately sevenfold increase over 20 years.
This research is groundbreaking as it is the first comprehensive study on skin cancer incidence and survival rates in South Korea. It provides concrete statistical data to confirm what was previously believed to be a vague increase in cases.
Historically, skin cancer has been less common among Asians compared to Westerners due to the higher melanin content in Asian skin, which offers better protection against ultraviolet rays. However, the research team identified that increased life expectancy and more outdoor activities have led to greater sun exposure—the primary cause of skin cancer—resulting in a gradual rise in cases among Koreans.
The study found that the highest number of cases of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma occurred in individuals over 70 years old. Specifically, the number of basal cell carcinoma cases surged from 488 in 1999 to 3,908 in 2019, nearly an eightfold increase.
Kwon noted, “While the actual incidence of skin cancer has risen, the increase in patient numbers can also be attributed to greater awareness and more frequent early-stage diagnoses.”
Examining survival rates by cancer type reveals promising trends. For the most prevalent type of basal cell carcinoma, the five-year relative survival rate has exceeded 100% over the past twenty years. A survival rate above 100% suggests that basal cell carcinoma patients have a better chance of survival compared to those without cancer.
The five-year relative survival rate for squamous cell carcinoma improved from 77.3% during 1996-2000 to 89.3% in 2015-2019.
Malignant melanoma also showed progress, with its five-year relative survival rate rising from 47.8% to 63.9% over the same period. However, the survival rate for angiosarcoma remained at 24.7%.
Kwon mentioned, “This research is expected to provide foundational data for developing future clinical guidelines for treating and preventing skin cancer in South Korea.”
“Since skin cancer often occurs on the faces of older individuals, it is important to consult a dermatologist if you notice any unusual spots or non-healing wounds on your parents’ faces,” he added.
This study has been published in the international dermatology journal Japanese Dermatological Association: Journal of Dermatology.