Melanoma, a deadly type of skin cancer, is claiming more lives among men than women, according to a new report from the American Cancer Society (ACS). The study found that in 2021, an estimated 7,130 men in the U.S. will die from melanoma, compared to 4,740 women.

The reasons for this disparity are not fully understood, though the ACS notes that men are more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma in its later stages, when treatment options are limited. Additionally, men may be less likely to protect their skin from the sun or seek medical attention for suspicious moles or spots.

However, experts say that prevention and early detection can greatly improve survival rates for both men and women. “When melanoma is caught early, it can be very treatable,” says Dr. Richard Wender, chief cancer control officer for the ACS. “That’s why it’s so important for people to be aware of the risks, protect their skin, and get regular skin checks from a dermatologist.”

Prevention measures include wearing protective clothing and hats, seeking shade, and using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Experts also recommend avoiding tanning beds, which increase the risk of developing melanoma by up to 75 percent.

For those who do develop melanoma, early treatment is key. Surgery is often the first line of defense, and can be highly effective if the cancer has not spread to other parts of the body. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy drugs are also options for advanced melanoma cases.

While melanoma rates have been rising steadily over the past few decades, advances in treatment and prevention have contributed to a decline in melanoma deaths in recent years. With continued awareness and vigilance, experts hope to see this trend continue.