When we think of major health threats facing men, our minds usually jump straight to heart disease or prostate cancer. But there is a silent, rapidly growing crisis hiding in plain sight -- right on our skin.

According to the new data from the Canadian Cancer Society, melanoma has become one of the most pressing, yet overlooked, challenges in men’s health.

The Stats

This year alone, an estimated 6,200 Canadian men will be diagnosed with melanoma, and roughly 820 will lose their lives to it. To put that into perspective, men make up nearly 55% of all new melanoma cases in Canada, but account for a staggering 65% of all deaths from the disease. The hard truth is that while melanoma affects everyone, Canadian men are being diagnosed later and dying at significantly higher rates than women. It is a massive blind spot in men's health, and it’s time we talk about exactly why it’s happening—and how to fix it.

Where

In men, melanoma most frequently develops on the back, shoulders, head, and neck. These are areas that are incredibly difficult to see during a casual mirror check, making self-detection highly unlikely without a second pair of eyes.

Why

Men are heavily represented in outdoor industries like construction, agriculture, and trades. Outdoor workers face up to 3.5 times the risk of skin cancer due to prolonged UV exposure. Simultaneously, sun safety protocols on job sites are low to non-existent. In terms of leisure activities, approximately 75% of golfers are men. Various water activities (often enjoyed in sunny conditions) are also predominantly enjoyed by men.

Sunscreen!!

The preventive truth: men are statistically less likely to wear daily sunscreen or actively seek shade compared to women. This needs to change. We have done a great job at reaching women. It's time to get the men on board, too. It's also important to note: men are less likely to reapply sunscreen even during a full day in the sun.

Survival Rate

The 5-year survival rate for men is 84%, compared to 91% for women. This isn't because the cancer behaves differently; it's because men catch it much later. Plus, men tend to put off visiting the doctor. Early melanoma rarely hurts or causes discomfort, and a changing mole is easily ignored until it has already spread (metastasized).

How Can We Help?

If you have a father, husband, brother or son, PLEASE stress the importance of daily sunscreen for uncovered areas. Especially for those who work or play outside. Plan to do a 60 second check on their back, neck, ears etc. Remember the ABCDE Rule: Look for changes in Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, Evolving (growth). Make a point to help check the harder to see areas to help with early detection.

Melanoma is highly treatable if caught early. Taking sun safety seriously and getting a routine skin check isn't a sign of weakness, it’s a life-saving habit.