Skin Cancer Is A Serious Disease
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., with more than 5 million cases diagnosed each year, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. While skin cancer is prevalent, it’s also preventable.
Unfortunately, many people don’t realize skin cancer is serious until it’s too late. That’s why, during Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May, health professionals are working to educate people about how to prevent, detect and treat skin cancer.
The facts are sobering. Despite being highly treatable when detected early, skin cancer can be deadly if ignored. Melanoma, the most serious form, is expected to claim over 8,000 lives in the U.S. this year alone. In fact, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Here’s more from the Skin Cancer Foundation:
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis, the outermost skin layer, caused by unrepaired DNA damage that triggers mutations. These mutations lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. The main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).
What does skin cancer look like?
Skin cancers can vary in appearance from person to person due to skin tone, size, type of skin cancer and location on the body. Click here to see photos of how skin cancers may appear.
What causes skin cancer?
The two main causes of skin cancer are exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and using tanning beds. The good news is that if skin cancer is caught early, it most likely can be removed entirely, with little or no scarring. Your doctor may even be able to detect and treat abnormal growth at a precancerous stage, before it penetrates below the surface of the skin.
While UV exposure is the leading preventable cause of skin cancer, many people still underestimate their risk—especially younger adults or those who tan easily. Sun safety isn't just for beach days. Health experts recommend practicing year-round protection to reduce your risk. Here are some tips:
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even when it’s cloudy
Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest
Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses
Avoid tanning beds, which emit harmful UV radiation and increase your risk of all of skin cancer types
Early detection is critical. The Skin Cancer Foundation encourages monthly self-exams to look for new or changing spots. Use the ABCDE rule to monitor moles:
Asymmetry – one half doesn’t match the other
Border – irregular, ragged or blurred edges
Color – varied shades of brown, black or red
Diameter – larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
Evolving – any change in size, shape, color or elevation
Remember, skin cancer awareness starts with conversation. Whether it’s a chat with coworkers or a social media post, your voice matters. Get and share this toolkit with skin cancer facts, prevention guidelines and early detection content.
Take action now to protect your skin, check it regularly and encourage others to do the same!
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