Melanoma : the Maltese picture

Abstract

Malignant melanoma is a potentially fatal variety of skin cancer, which has been exhibiting an upward trend in incidence in most Caucasian populations during the past two to three decades. A genetic predisposition in the form of fair type I/II skin, atypical mole syndrome and family history of melanoma is well recognised. However, the single most important extrinsic aetiological factor is beyond doubt ultraviolet exposure, particularly episodes of sunburn and excessive sun exposure in childhood. To this end, numerous public awareness campaigns to educate the public on sun protection and to stress the importance of early melanoma detection have been conducted worldwide, Malta being no exception.