Melanoma
Last update
There have been 2,682 new cases of melanoma registered in Norway in 2024. In 2024, there has been a slight decrease in melanoma cases compared to 2021-2022, when there was an increase of 20 percent.
About melanoma
Melanoma usually occurs in the skin and develops from the pigment-forming cells in the skin. In rare cases, melanoma can occur in the eye and mucous membranes (vagina, throat, intestine). Melanoma is the skin cancer that takes the most lives. Below we provide figures and information for melanoma of the skin.
The number of melanoma cases globally has increased sharply in populations with fair skin type, and the incidence in Norway is among the highest in the world.
Key figures - melanoma of the skin 2024
New cases
Men: 1394
Women: 1288
Rates - number of cases per 100,000
Men: 46.2
Women: 40.7
5-year relative survival (2020-2024)
Men: 91.9 %
Women: 95.8 %
Cancer survivors - both genders
36,228 people as of December 31, 2024
Deaths (2023)
Men: 181
Women: 116
Cumulative risk of developing melanoma by age 80 (2020-2024)
Men: 3.9 %
Women: 3.6 %
Risk factors
The most important causative factor for melanoma of the skin is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds. The significant increase in incidence over the past few decades is likely due to changes in sun habits and increased UV exposure, particularly among men over the age of 50.
Those at the highest risk are individuals with fair skin and blond or red hair, as well as those with many or large moles. In addition, other factors (e.g., overweight, use of certain medications, chemicals) may also play a role.
Some families appear to be genetically predisposed to skin cancer. They may request genetic testing and special follow-up.
You can find more about risk factors in the overview from WCRF.
There are several studies that have looked into the risk of melanoma. An overview of factors identified as carcinogenic based on International Agency for Research on Cancer monographs:
Questions about cancer
The Cancer Registry of Norway is a research institution. Our professionals therefore do not answer questions about diagnosis, assessment, treatment and follow-up from patients or their relatives.
Inquiries about this information should be directed to your general practitioner, treating institution, or the Norwegian Cancer Society's advisory service at phone: +47 21 49 49 21.