The Gallup analysis finds the largest concentrations in the West â and not just in the expected places like San Francisco and Portland, Ore. Among the nationâs 50 largest metropolitan areas, Denver and Salt Lake City are also in the top 10.
The most significant cost increase occurred in treatment for people with melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer. The study found that the cost of treatment jumped 106 percent, rising from $2,320 annually to $4,789 annually.
What is melanoma? Melanoma is usually, but not always, a cancer of the skin. It begins in melanocytes â the cells that produce the pigment melanin that colors the skin, hair and eyes. Melanocytes also form moles, where melanoma often develops. Having moles can be a risk factor for melanoma, but itâs important to remember that most moles do not become melanoma.