Men and Melanoma
Did you know that by the age of 65, men are twice as likely to develop melanoma compared to women of the same age? It’s a startling statistic, and a strong reminder that protecting your skin isn’t just about avoiding a sunburn. With guidance from the best primary care physician in Maryland, it’s also about preventing one of the most serious forms of skin cancer.
Why Are Men More Likely to Develop Melanoma?
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men, and the risk only increases with age. Most new cases of melanoma are found in men over the age of 55. A consultation with the best primary care physician in Maryland can help explain why and what steps to take for prevention.
Several contributing factors explain the higher incidence:
Increased sun exposure: Many men work or spend leisure time outdoors, often without proper sun protection.
Less likely to use sunscreen: Research shows men are significantly less likely to wear sunscreen compared to women.
Fewer skin checks: Men tend to skip annual dermatology visits and are less likely to perform self-checks at home.
Hard-to-see areas: Melanomas in men often appear on the back and scalp, which can be difficult to monitor without assistance.
This combination of risk factors means that melanoma in men is often detected later, when it's more difficult to treat.
How Men Can Take Charge of Their Skin Health
The good news? Melanoma is highly treatable when caught early, and many cases can be prevented altogether with good skin care habits.
Here are some essential sun safety and skin health tips to follow year-round:
Apply sunscreen daily, even when it’s cloudy. Choose a broad-spectrum formula with SPF 30 or higher.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours when spending extended time outdoors, especially after swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Seek shade during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Avoid tanning beds, which expose your skin to concentrated UV radiation.
Perform monthly self-checks to spot new or changing moles or skin patches.
Schedule annual skin exams with a board-certified dermatologist.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any new or unusual spots on your skin, especially ones that change in size, shape, or color, don’t delay. The earlier melanoma is caught, the more treatment options you have and the better the outcome.
Best Primary Care Physicians in Maryland
Bowie Internal Medicine is committed to treating any conditions you may have, as well as preventing further health complications through preventive care. For more information about managing your headaches, please contact our office to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.