Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month - May 2025

There’s no doubt: Skin cancer’s the most common type of cancer in America — by far. Still, when treated early, it’s curable. Melanomas, while less prevalent, are more dangerous because they’re much more likely to grow and spread to other areas of the body. Learn more in May during Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month.

Remember, you can reduce your risk by limiting or avoiding exposure to sunlight. Checking your skin for suspicious changes can help detect cancer early. Note: Skin cancer affects people of all skin tones, including those with darker complexions.

Read on for tips and helpful advice on treatment and prevention.

Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month timeline

2019

Promising research

A Massachusetts General Hospital study found that two topical creams, used together, greatly reduce the odds for squamous cell carcinomas — the second most diagnosed form of skin cancer.

2009

Tanning bed trouble

The World Health Organization moved UV tanning beds to its highest cancer risk category: "carcinogenic to humans." Prior to the move, the group had classified tanning bed use as "probably carcinogenic."

2008

Microscopic exams

Studies determined that a procedure called "dermoscopy" is more accurate than a doctor's visual examination for identifying potential melanomas.

2005

Young people at risk

Research showed skin cancer – including melanoma – increased in both children and young adults. The incidence of melanoma rose 3 percent each year from 1973 to 2001 in people under 20.

1956

The UV connection

Australian researcher Henry Lancaster linked the sun's ultraviolet radiation to increased cases of melanoma. He was the first to measure the connection between melanoma and latitude — especially in Australia and New Zealand.

5 Skin Cancer Risk Factors

Fair skin

If you have blonde/red hair and light-colored eyes, and you freckle or sunburn easily, you need to take extra precautions.

Abnormal moles

The medical term is "dysplastic nevi." Monitor them regularly and see a doctor if you spot changes. Check your skin during Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month

Too much sun

Sunny days might lift your mood, but not your skin. Living at higher altitudes prone to strong sunlight also exposes you to more radiation.

Smoking

Here's another reason to quit: Smokers are more likely to develop squamous cell skin cancers, particularly on the lips.

Family/personal history

Pay extra attention if you, a parent, or a sibling has, experienced skin cancer before.

How to Observe Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month

See a doctor

Schedule a visit if you notice any changes to your skin that concern you. Not all changes signal a problem. Make time during Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month to examine your skin.

Wear sunscreen

It's a good idea year-round. Sunscreens don't filter out all harmful UV rays, especially those that can lead to melanoma, but they play a very big role in overall protection.

Avoid tanning beds

People who use a tanning bed before the age of 35 increase their risk for melanoma by 75 percent. Plus, UV radiation can lead to premature skin aging (wrinkles, loose skin, brown spots) as well as skin cancer.

Why Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month is Important

One in five Americans

Skin cancer's widespread. Approximately 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed every day. More than a million Americans are living with melanoma (the most dangerous type).

Early treatment leads to cures

Common types including basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are highly curable. And the five-year survival rate for people who can detect and treat melanoma before it spreads to the lymph nodes is nearly 100 percent.

High costs

The annual cost of treating nonmelanoma skin cancer in the U.S. is estimated at $4.8 billion, while the average annual cost of treating melanoma is estimated at $3.3 billion.

Also on Thu May 1, 2025...