U.S. veterans may have a greater likelihood of developing melanoma and having their cancer diagnosed at later stages, according to new findings.

The veteran population often experiences occupational hazards that could increase their susceptibility to melanoma because of long-term exposure to greater levels of ultraviolet radiation in countries near the equator or at higher altitudes, according to the study investigators.

Recent surveys have shown that 75% of veterans worked outdoors for over 6 hours per day, 40% of them were unaware of the risks of skin cancer, and most of them had been sunburned during service. 

Additionally, members of the Air Force were advised to apply sunscreen when flying and to undergo more frequent screening for skin cancer because of their exposure to ionizing radiation. 

“It’s important for those in the military to use sun protection … and for both military members and veterans to look for changes to their skin regularly. If they notice anything that looks different, is changing, or bleeding, or if they have a history of skin cancer or … sunburns, then they should see a … dermatologist,” concluded lead study author Rebecca I. Hartman, MD, MPH, FAAD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School and Chief of the Dermatology Section at the VA Boston Healthcare System.

The study was presented at the 2024 AAD Annual Meeting.