United States ? Melanoma rates have risen 50 percent among young women in the U.S. since 1980, a trend that might be related to an increase in the use of tanning parlors and exposure to the sun, according to a report released Thursday.

Among young men, melanoma rates have remained steady, the report found.

The most lethal skin cancer, melanoma occurs in pigment-producing skin cells. The American Cancer Society estimates that 62,480 new cases and 8,420 deaths will occur from melanoma in the U.S. this year.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the biggest risk factor for developing the cancer, although genetic factors can contribute. People with fair skin are most at risk, but melanoma occurs in people of all races and skin tones.