Denmark leads Europe in skin cancer rates as cases continue to rise

Denmark has the highest rate of melanoma and skin cancer in Europe per capita, according to a new report from the Nordic cancer registry NORDCAN, with one in four Danes developing skin cancer before age 80.

The country’s climbing incidence—driven in part by a cultural preference for sun exposure and a population with fair, sun-sensitive skin—has prompted warnings from health officials.

“Our skin types are quite vulnerable to UV radiation, and at the same time, we really love being out in the sun,” said Christine Tybring, a specialist advisor at the Danish Cancer Society. She cautioned that if current trends persist, “things don’t look good,” though she expressed hope that improved sun habits could still reverse the rise.

Nearly half of young Danes actively seek UV exposure to achieve tan lines, often abandoning sun protection habits learned in childhood. Oscar Throup Søndergaard, 18, from Aalborg, acknowledged the risks but said, “I’d rather enjoy the sun while I’m young than stay indoors.”

In response, the Danish Cancer Society launched a new campaign Monday urging young people to reconsider sunbathing during peak UV hours.