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Abstract
The incidence of malignant melanoma has risen substantially in the United States over recent decades, with solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation recognized as a key causal factor. Patterns of UV exposure and sunburn may differentially influence melanoma risk by gender and anatomic site. This study examined exposure–response relationships by gender and body location using an ecologic analysis of population‑based data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program and UV Index data from the National Weather Service. Analyses included 39,582 melanoma cases diagnosed among Caucasians under 76 years of age during 2000–2004. Results demonstrated significant gender‑ and site‑specific differences in melanoma incidence, suggesting that geographic location and protective behaviors may play an important role in modifying risk.