May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month—a time to understand the risks, learn prevention strategies, and recognize the importance of early detection. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, but the good news is that it's highly treatable and largely preventable when caught early.

Key Observances This May

Melanoma Monday kicks off the month on the first Monday of May, shining a spotlight on melanoma—the most serious and aggressive form of skin cancer. This awareness day encourages people to learn the warning signs and take skin health seriously.

Don't Fry Day arrives on the Friday before Memorial Day, reminding us all to prioritize sun safety as we head outdoors for summer activities. It's the perfect moment to refresh your sun protection routine before the season heats up.

Prevention: Your First Line of Defense

Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is the most effective way to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Here are the essential strategies:

• Apply Sunscreen Daily: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every single day. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
• Cover Up: Wear sun-protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses when spending time outdoors.
• Seek Shade: Limit direct sun exposure during peak UV hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Skip Tanning Beds: Indoor tanning significantly increases skin cancer risk and should be avoided entirely.

Early Detection: The ABCDE Guide

Regular self-examinations are crucial. Check your skin from head to toe monthly, looking for new growths or changes in existing moles. Use the ABCDE method to identify potential warning signs of melanoma:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't match the other half.
• B – Border: Edges are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
• C – Color: The color is uneven or contains multiple shades (brown, black, red, or white).
• D – Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 mm—about the size of a pencil eraser.
• E – Evolution: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation over time.

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist right away.

Take Action This May

Skin cancer awareness isn't just about one month—it's about building lifelong habits that protect you and your family. Start by examining your skin, refreshing your sun safety routine, and sharing what you've learned with loved ones. Your skin will thank you for years to come.