Coloradans at High Risk of Developing Melanoma and Other Skin Cancers
Image by Holly Mandarich
One of the sunniest places in the United States and also the state with the highest average elevation, Colorado has one of the nation’s highest per-capita rates of skin cancer.
Most Coloradans live a healthy and active lifestyle, spending a lot of time outdoors. How could they not, given Colorado’s unique landscapes and scenic Rocky Mountain views. As a result, Colorado recorded the lowest number of adults with obesity; smoking rates among adults are lower than the national average, and Coloradans rank second in the nation for low blood pressure and low rates of diabetes. (Sources: CDC 2020, CDC 2019, CDC 2020)
A Healthy State at Risk
However, despite their good health, Coloradans face a higher-than-average risk of developing skin cancer. And the rate has continued to steadily rise. It is estimated that more than 2,200 Coloradans will be diagnosed with melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, in 2021 (Source: American Cancer Society 2021). In 2000 there were only 858 new melanoma cases. In 2010, the total number of new melanoma cases in Colorado was 1,119 (Source: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment 2018).
“Colorado residents are at high risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers due to the more than 300 days of average sunshine per year in combination with the elevation and resultant high UV-index.” - Dr. Ryan Weight
Many studies indicate that there is a correlation between altitude and an increased melanoma risk. For example, a 2016 study in Austria, another alpine region, found that melanoma incidence rates for Austrians increased by as much as 30% per 100m (around 330 feet) altitude (Source: Intl. Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2016).
A similar trend can be reported in Colorado. Gunnison (7,703 feet) and Ouray County (7,792 feet) report a melanoma rate of over 45 for every 100,000 people. Clear Creek (6,880 feet), Chaffee (6,900 feet), Elbert (7,360 feet), and Douglas (7,190 feet) counties all report that their incidence of melanoma is more than 30 for every 100,000 people.
On the other hand, counties below 6,000 feet report fewer cases. Denver County (5,280 feet) has less than 20 cases per 100,000 people per year. Pueblo (4,291 feet), Adams (4,432 feet), and Montezuma (4,639 feet) counties all have rates under 16 per every 100,000 people per year. (Source: NIH 2018)
Melanoma Incidence Rates for Colorado by County between 2014 and 2018.
Preventing Melanoma Skin Cancer in Colorado
Skin cancer may be the most common type of cancer in Colorado, but it is also the most preventable. The easiest way to protect yourself is by practicing sun-avoidance - easier said than done when living in such a beautiful state.
“Sun-avoidance and sun-protective measures can go a long way in preventing all types of skin cancer. It is recommended that people seek shade during peak UV times of the day, 11 am - 3 pm in Colorado; use UPF-rated clothing when venturing outdoors; and use sunscreen on all exposed areas of skin when direct or indirect sun exposure is anticipated.” - Dr. Ryan Weight
Here’s what you can do to protect yourself:
Cover up: Wear long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat, and sun protective clothing.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen: Apply approximately 1 ounce of sunscreen SPF30 or higher to your entire body 30 minutes before any outdoor activity. Reapply every 2 hours or more frequently if you sweat or get wet.
Examine your skin: Self-exams are a necessary part of detecting cancer early. Take a closer look at any moles, blemishes, bumps or birthmarks from the top of your head to your toes.
Get a professional skin exam once a year: Book a skin cancer screening with a dermatologist, who is trained to identify any unnatural growth.
Skin Cancer Resources in Colorado
If you or an acquaintance have been diagnosed with skin cancer, there are many helpful resources to help you find the right care in Colorado.
The Melanoma & Skin Cancer Institute - We are a medical oncology practice and research institute specializing in treating patients diagnosed with melanoma and other types of skin cancers. Founded by Dr. Ryan Weight, a well-known expert in the field, we help patients and their families understand the disease process in order to make informed decisions that fit their personal goals.
Colorado Melanoma Foundation - The first and only local melanoma-specific non-profit organization, the Colorado Melanoma Foundation provides patient education and support networks, encourages early detection and screening, and informs patients about current treatment options, sun protective behaviors, and recent developments in our global understanding on melanoma.
The Sarah Cannon Research Institute - A world-leading clinical trials facility, our partner, The Sarah Cannon Research Institute specializes in the development of new therapies and comprehensive cancer services.
The Sun Bus - A project by the Colorado Melanoma Foundation, the Sun Bus was launched to bring free skin exams and public education directly to Colorado residents. It is a mobile clinic and classroom visiting local events between May and November every year. Find the Sun Bus schedule here.