May 5 may be widely known as Cinco de Mayo, but this year May 5 marks Melanoma Awareness Day and kicks off Melanoma Awareness Month.
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and is largely influenced by sun exposure, however it also has a genetic component. If you have a first degree relative who has had malignant melanoma, you should be seen for regular skin exams with your dermatologist.
Here are some statistics about melanoma from the American Cancer Society:
- About 76,100 new melanomas will be diagnosed this year (2014)
- About 9,710 people are expected to die of melanoma this year (2014)
- The rates of melanoma have been rising for at least 30 years
What can you do to minimize your risk for melanoma? Be sun smart. Wear daily sunscreen of SPF45+ daily, and reapply every 1-2 hours when outdoors. Avoid being outdoors for extended periods of time during peak hours. Never use a tanning bed. Monitor your body for any changes in size, shape, color, itching, bleeding. Melanoma is treatable when caught early, so see a dermatologist regularly for full body exams or when you notice any changes.
Image source: http://u.osu.edu/
