Epidemiologic data of malignant melanoma in Osijek-Baranya County (Eastern Croatia) during the period of 2000-2008.

During the past several decades there has been a substantial increase in the incidence of malignant melanoma worldwide. The highest incidences were reported in New Zealand and Australia. In Europe the northern countries generally have a higher incidence. The aim of this retrospective study was to provide the incidence and mortality for all patients with malignant melanoma diagnosed in Osijek-Baranya County, Eastern Croatia, during 2000-2008. In the past 30 years in the Republic of Croatia the incidence of melanoma increased by 337%. During the period of 2000-2006 in Osijek-Baranja County, the incidence of melanoma increased by 13%. The incidence of melanoma increases with age, but in past decades melanoma is more often diagnosed in people aged 25-40. The mortality between 2000 and 2008 increased by 18%. The incidence of melanoma generally increases equally in men and women. The most common localization of skin melanoma in males was trunk and in females the lower extremities. Presently, in Osijek-Baranya County melanoma is 15th on the list of malignant tumors and represent 2% of all malignant tumors. In New Zealand, Australia and European northern countries mortality is reduced, as result of earlier diagnosis and education of risk groups. Unfortunately, in Osijek-Baranya County, in a comparison with these countries, the mortality is higher although incidence is the same or lower.