Melanoma incidence and trends in the Nelson-Marlborough area of New Zealand.

AIMS

To determine the recent incidence of melanoma in the Nelson-Marlborough area of New Zealand and to compare this with a formerly determined incidence from the same area and with published incidences and trends elsewhere in New Zealand and Queensland.

METHODS

All histopathology reports for the region were examined retrospectively each four weeks and relevant information extracted. In cases of doubt, pathologists were consulted and cases reviewed. Population, demographic and weather information was obtained from statistical records.

RESULTS

These showed a doubling of the incidence since the previous survey with a reduction in female incidence. There was marked reduction in the incidence in the age groups 20-39 with an increase in those over 60 years. The number of superficial more easily cured lesions were almost doubled with marked reduction in the more sinister thicker and nodular lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of melanoma in the region is increasing at a rate comparable with other areas but with significant reductions in the incidence of thicker and more advanced melanoma as well as a decreased incidence in those under 40 years of age. The incidence in Nelson-Marlborough still remains very high but is slightly less than that shown for the Tauranga district over a similar period.