Iowa’s Top 5 for Melanoma Rates Across the U.S.

Iowa seems to be a hotbed for cancer studies lately. It could be our agricultural complex and the heavy use of herbicides, pesticides, and nitrates. It could also be the fact that in general, we spend lots of time outdoors. Maybe it's the fact of our very heavy German and Irish descent that makes us all the more appealing to the "sunburn gods." Either way, this isn't a list we want to be on as a state, especially at #3.

I'm no stranger to skin cancer or melanoma. Several individuals in my family have struggled with it for many years. My grandmother has had several sections of skin taken from her face and arms due to this cancerous invasion, and it just keeps returning as an ever-dangerous pest. Genetics has made me wary of the sun, often opting for hats and even long sleeves while fishing. So what do the numbers from this latest study say, and how can we keep our skin blemish-free in Iowa?

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A recent study by Weiss & Paarz analyzed CDC data and surveyed more than 2,400 Americans to examine sunscreen habits and melanoma rates nationwide. The study found that Iowa ranks third in melanoma incidence, with 4.21 cases per 10,000 residents, following Vermont (4.82) and Minnesota (4.52). Other states with lower rates include Massachusetts (1.56) and Texas (1.60), revealing stark regional differences in both skin cancer risk and sun protection habits.

Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigment. It can develop on sun-exposed areas such as the arms, back, face, and legs, but it can also appear in hidden places like the soles of the feet, palms, under nails, the scalp, or even inside the body. Risk factors include ultraviolet (UV) light exposure from the sun or tanning beds, lighter skin tones (us Irish and German folks), and family history (your genes).

Early detection is key. Signs of melanoma include changes in existing moles, the appearance of a new growth, asymmetrical shapes, multiple colors, irregular borders, itching, or bleeding. Hidden melanomas are rarer but include ocular melanoma, mucosal melanoma, and acral-lentiginous melanoma. These are less obvious but are just as dangerous, particularly for people with darker skin. If untreated, melanoma can continue to spread and lead to death.

Tips to protect your skin:

• Slather on sunscreen: Broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher is ideal. Make sure to reapply every two hours. If you're worried about their safety, check out this study and do what's right for you.
• Seek shade: Especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
• Cover up: Hats, long sleeves, and UV-protective clothing can make a big difference.
• Check yourself regularly: Look for any new or changing moles, and don’t forget hidden spots like soles, palms, and scalp.
• Skip tanning beds: Those “safe” indoor rays are anything but safe.

The good news is that melanoma is treatable if caught early. However, awareness and prevention are our best tools for keeping Iowans safe under the sun.