Serbia tops Europe in melanoma death rates

Serbia records the highest mortality from malignant skin tumours in Europe. About 700 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year, and roughly 300 die, according to Savo Pilipović, president of the Serbian Patients Association. Pilipović said the country’s poor health‑care system, low public awareness, fear of doctors and misconceptions about sun exposure and tanning beds are major contributors. Access to qualified dermatologists is limited, especially outside major cities.

He also noted that melanoma, once considered a disease of older people, is now increasingly seen in younger individuals. High‑risk groups include those with a family history of melanoma, light‑skinned individuals, people with many moles and those who use tanning beds.