Mortality trends of cutaneous malignant melanoma in Brazil

Introduction: The occurrence of cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) is associated with the constitutive color of the skin and depends on the geographical zone. Stabilization or decreasing trend in mortality by CNM is being observed in many countries. In Brazil, over the last two decades, the mortality by CMN remains increasing. Objectives: This study analyses the trends in mortality rates by CMM among males and females in Brazil during 1978-2007 for the whole country and for the five geographical regions. Methods: Data of deaths from CMN were extracted from the National Mortality System of Ministry of Health by year of death, sex and age. Five year mortality rates for specific age groups (<30, 30-59 and ³ 60 years old) were calculated according to sex and geographical region. Results: The highest rates of mortality were found in the South region. An increase of 84% among men and 62 % among women was observed in all country in the oldest age group (³ 60 years old), this increase was observed in all regions. In the population up to 30 years old, positive trends in mortality (83% in men and 22% in women) were seen only in the South region. In the age group of 35 to 59 years old it was observed an increased trend in South but also in Middle West region. Conclusions: The results point to the need of an adequate plan for prevention and early detection especially in the South region of the country which concentrates fair skinned population. Strategies of improvement of diagnoses and treatment carried out by the National Unified Health System are necessary.