Serbia Leads Europe in Skin Cancer Deaths, Experts Cite Systemic Failures

Serbia faces a critical public health challenge with its high mortality rate from melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. Savo Pilipović, president of the Serbian Patient Association, stated that approximately 700 people are diagnosed with melanoma annually, and around 300 succumb to the disease, placing Serbia at the very top of European countries for skin cancer fatalities.

Pilipović pointed to a "poor healthcare system" as a primary reason for the grim statistics. He highlighted that many Serbians still fear seeking medical help and are misinformed about the dangers of excessive sun exposure and tanning beds. "We are taught that the sun is healthy and that tanning beds are preparation for the sea, but these are absurdities that cost us our lives," he told the daily newspaper Danas.

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We are taught that the sun is healthy and that tanning beds are preparation for the sea, but these are absurdities that cost us our lives.

Compounding the issue is the difficulty patients face in accessing dermatologists, especially skilled ones. This lack of timely access contributes to a low level of awareness about prevention. "Even when patients want to see a doctor, it's not easy to get to a dermatologist, especially a good one," Pilipović explained.

Furthermore, melanoma is no longer solely a disease of the elderly; it is increasingly diagnosed in younger individuals. A common factor in these cases is the late detection of skin changes, often after the cancer has spread through the lymphatic system, making treatment significantly more challenging. Those with a family history of melanoma, fair skin, numerous moles, or who use tanning beds are identified as being in higher-risk groups.

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Even when patients want to see a doctor, it's not easy to get to a dermatologist, especially a good one.