Iowa melanoma rates are higher than the U.S. average

Iowa's estimated rate of new melanoma cases remains well above the national average and is the fifth highest in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).

Why it matters: Melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancer, but is more likely to grow and spread.

By the numbers: There's an average of 30 new cases in the state per year, in comparison to 23 cases nationally.

Zoom in: Melanoma cases are higher in northern Iowa, according to zip code analysis by the Iowa Cancer Registry.

• Health experts have pointed to Iowa's agricultural industry as a potential cause for the higher rates, due to more time spent outside, the Gazette reports .

Plus: Melanoma is also 20 times more common in white than Black populations.

• Iowa is about 62% white, higher than the U.S. average, according to the U.S. Census Bureau .

Yes, but: Sun exposure isn't the only possible reason for the uptick in melanoma diagnoses.

• Other factors: More effective skin cancer detection and the fact that many Americans are living longer, says Shanthi Sivendran, ACS senior vice president of cancer care support.

Go deeper: How to pick a "safe" sunscreen

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