Epidemiological characterization of cutaneous malignant melanoma deaths in Brazil between 2020 and 2024

a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Cutaneous melanoma represents the most lethal subtype of skin cancer, standing out due to its high metastatic potential and its impact on mortality. This study aimed to characterize the epidemiological profile and temporal trends of cutaneous melanoma deaths in Brazil between 2020 and 2024. This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, populationbased study using data from the Mortality Information System, including records classified under International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems code C43. During the study period, 9,792 deaths were recorded, showing relative temporal stability and the highest number of occurrences in 2023 (2,047 cases). Mortality was more frequent among males (57.34%), individuals aged 60 years or older (69.88%), White individuals (78.38%), and those with lower educational attainment (47.67%). The Southeast and South regions accounted for 75.37% of all deaths, although the North, Northeast, and Central-West regions exhibited more pronounced proportional increases throughout the historical series. A high frequency of records with unspecified anatomical location was also observed, highlighting limitations in the specificity of the available information. The findings demonstrate the persistence of disparities in melanoma mortality in Brazil and reinforce the need for targeted strategies focused on prevention, early diagnosis, and the strengthening of epidemiological surveillance, taking into account the sociodemographic and regional inequalities identified.