Are Military Populations at Increased Risk of Skin Malignancies?

By: Sarah Lynch
Posted: Tuesday, July 5, 2022

Researchers at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center discovered an increased prevalence of melanoma skin cancers among military populations as compared with their civilian counterparts. Biopsies from military populations were examined due to their unique socioeconomic status and potential on-the-job exposure to harmful substances. According to James Yong, MD, USAF, MC, and colleagues, screening for malignancy via skin biopsy should be performed in the military population, with considerations made for gender, age, and rank.

Between August 2015 and July 2016, 3,098 biopsies were selected for experimental consideration. Of these biopsies, 1,084 were positive for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, or atypical nevus/squamous proliferation. Of these results, 54 were positive for melanoma.

In statistics from the general population, melanoma represents about 1% of all cases of skin cancer. However, melanoma accounted for about 5% of all cases of skin cancer. Of note, there was a significantly higher presence of melanoma in military officers than in the enlisted population (31.1 to 7.0 cases per 100,000 people tested).

The research was conducted to compare civilian and military rates of skin malignancies, specifically melanoma, and determine whether hidden military-specific risk factors exist. The data suggest that military-specific risks for skin cancer include frequent aviation work and other occupational exposure. Future research aims to consider gender, age, and rank in the military when assessing new biopsy samples to examine other possible risk factors. Additionally, the Walter Reed researchers suggest increased screening for skin malignancies in military personnel due to these observed risk factors.

Disclosure: The study authors reported no conflicts of interest. Their views expressed here do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.

Military Medicine

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