Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. UV radiation can also come from tanning booths or sunlamps. The most dangerous kind of skin cancer is called melanoma.
The good news? Skin cancer can almost always be cured when it’s found and treated early – and that includes melanoma. We can work together to prevent skin cancer or find it early, when it’s easier to treat.
This May, spread the word about strategies for preventing skin cancer and encourage organizations, communities, and families to get involved.
How can Skin Cancer Prevention Month make a difference?
We can use this month to raise awareness about skin cancer and help people take action to prevent or detect it – both at home and in the community.
Here are just a few ideas:
- Encourage families to adopt good habits together, like wearing sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and limiting their time in the sun.
- Motivate teachers and administrators to educate kids about the harm of UV radiation and why it’s important to protect yourself.
- Identify youth leaders in your community who can talk to their peers about how to prevent skin cancer.
- Partner with a local hospital, state fair, or similar organization to host a skin cancer screening event.
How can I help spread the word?
We’ve made it easier for you to make a difference. This toolkit is full of ideas to help you take action today. For example:
- Add information about skin cancer prevention to your newsletter.
- Tweet about Skin Cancer Prevention Month.
- Host a community event where families can learn how to prevent skin cancer.
- Add this Web badge to your website.
Find More Information:
- American Academy of Dermatology
Skin Cancer Prevention Month Sponsor - SPOT Skin Cancer
American Academy of Dermatology - Skin Cancer
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Skin Care and Aging
National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging - Skin Cancer
National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute - Protecting Yourself in the Sun
Occupational Safety and Health Administration - Sun Safety
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency