Skin cancer rates decline in Sweden as public awareness campaigns take effect

Skin cancer rates in Sweden have steadily increased since the 1960s, coinciding with the rise of charter vacations to sunny destinations. However, researchers from Karolinska Institutet have identified a significant trend reversal, noting a decline in melanoma cases beginning around 2015. Hildur Helgadottir, a senior physician and oncology lecturer, explains that the reduction has only recently been confirmed as it may take many years for sun damage to manifest as cancer.

The study, published in JAMA Dermatology, has not pinpointed the exact reasons for this decline but suggests four potential factors. The primary theory is that public awareness campaigns promoting safe sun exposure, initiated in the 1990s, have had a positive effect, particularly in protecting children from sunburn. Helgadottir recalls that it was once common for children to suffer severe sunburns without concern, often viewed as a “strengthening” experience.

Another contributing factor is the significant decrease in the availability of tanning salons in Sweden due to regulations requiring a minimum age of 18. Additionally, increased screen time from mobile devices and computers has likely reduced young people’s exposure to sunlight. The demographic of individuals in Sweden with darker skin tones, who are less susceptible to sun damage, has also increased.

Sweden is the first country in Europe to report a decline in skin cancer cases, following similar trends in Australia and the United States. Although some young people are reportedly using UV index guidelines to obtain darker tans, Helgadottir believes that the decrease in skin cancer cases will continue, emphasizing that effective sun safety practices are crucial.