CANCER
Late stage melanoma 25 times more costly to treat than early stage disease
Early diagnosis of skin cancer is easier to treat and the patient is more likely to recover well, resulting in reduced economic cost for the health service and the patient, according to a new study
August 18, 2023
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The cost of diagnosisng and teating a person with late stage melanoma is more than 25 times higher than for a person with early stage disease, according to a recently publsihed study.New research conducted by the HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) highlights the difference between the economic cost of diagnosing and treating a person with the earliest stage of melanoma skin cancer (stage IA) compared to those with late stage melanoma skin cancer (stage IV).Early diagnosis of skin cancer is easier to treat and the patient is more likely to recover well, resulting in reduced economic cost for the health service and the patient.The study found the cost of diagnosing and treating a person with stage IV melanoma was €122,985, while the cost for a person with stage IA was €4,269. The study did not take into account the additional wider economic and personal costs of melanoma skin cancer to patients, their families and society.In Ireland, more than 1,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer each year, a number which is predicted to double between 2015 and 2045. Melanoma skin cancer is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, as it can spread to other organs in the body and can be fatal.Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. We can reduce our risk of skin cancer by protecting our skin from the sun and other sources of ultraviolet radiation, such as sunbeds. Being SunSmart and never using a sunbed, can help reduce your risk of all types of skin cancer, including melanoma.