A recent study from Florida Atlantic University's Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine reveals that melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer, disproportionately affects older adults in Florida. The state ranks second in the nation for melanoma incidence, with significant disparities in diagnosis and mortality across sex, race, and ethnicity. The research, published in the Journal of Geriatric Oncology, analyzed data from 2018 to 2023, highlighting that older men experienced about twice as many skin cancer-related deaths as women. Factors contributing to this disparity include lower sun-protective behaviors among men, higher cumulative UV exposure, and potential biological differences in immune responses. Notably, non-Hispanic populations showed higher rates of skin cancer compared to Hispanic groups. The study also noted that disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic affected screening and diagnosis rates. Researchers emphasize the need for targeted prevention strategies and increased awareness to address these disparities, particularly as Florida's aging population continues to grow and face high UV exposure during summer months.