Every year, the first Monday of May, known as Melanoma Monday, is designated by the American Academy of Dermatology (AADA) to raise awareness about skin cancer. Each year, approximately 5.4 million people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer.
Facts about skin cancer
• Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States.
• Approximately one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime
• More than 1 million Americans are living with melanoma.
• Melanoma rates in the United States have been rising rapidly over the past 30 years
• Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of skin color
• Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, the two most common forms of skin cancer, are highly treatable if detected early and treated properly.
• In 2022, it is estimated that 7,650 deaths will be attributed to melanoma
• About half of melanomas are self-detected.
You can decrease your risk of developing skin cancer as follows:
Wear and reapply sunscreen throughout the day
Find ways to protect yourself from the sun
wear a broad-brimmed hat, long sleeves, and pants.
Find shade. Trees, umbrellas, and awnings provide excellent sun protection on warm sunny days.
Don’t let the clouds fool you. UV rays still reach the Earth and your skin on a cloudy day!
Avoid tanning beds.
Regularly checking your skin can help with early detection. If you concerned about changes in your skin, get checked by your dermatologist.
Since 1984, the AADA have been advocating for prevention and increased screening prior to the summer months. For more information visit www.melanomaknowmore.com.
(sources: American Academy of Dermatology Association, National Calendar Day)
