Protect Your Skin: May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month
As the weather warms up and we spend more time outdoors, May is the perfect time to talk about something incredibly important: skin cancer prevention and awareness. Designated as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, this is a time to educate, reflect, and take action to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the most common cancer in the United States.
Why Skin Cancer Awareness Matters
Skin cancer affects 1 in 5 Americans by the age of 70. Fortunately, it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable types of cancer—especially when caught early.
There are three main types of skin cancer:
-
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – The most common, often caused by cumulative sun exposure.
-
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – Can be more aggressive, also linked to sun exposure.
-
Melanoma – Less common, but the most dangerous if not detected early.
Know the Warning Signs
Early detection saves lives. Watch for the ABCDEs of melanoma:
-
Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
-
Border: Irregular or poorly defined edges.
-
Color: Varies from one area to another.
-
Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser.
-
Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or color.
What You Can Do
-
Use sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
-
Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
-
Avoid tanning beds—they increase your risk significantly.
-
Check your skin monthly and schedule an annual professional skin exam.
Join Us This May
At Dermatology Professionals, we’re committed to raising awareness and helping our community stay safe in the sun. This month, we’re offering:
- Educational materials and free resources in our clinic and on our website.
-
Social media tips and reminders throughout the month—follow us to stay informed!
When in Doubt, Get It Checked
Don’t wait if you notice a suspicious spot or mole. Early detection can make all the difference.
Schedule your skin exam today—it’s a simple step that could save your life.
Reference(s):
American Academy of Dermatology. “Skin cancer.”
