May is Melanoma Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

Each May, we shine a spotlight on melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Melanoma Awareness Month is a time to educate, act, and—most importantly—protect the skin you're in.

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma develops in the melanocytes, the cells that give your skin its pigment. While it accounts for only about 1% of all skin cancer cases, it is the cause of most skin cancer deaths. Early detection is critical—when caught early, melanoma is highly treatable.

Fast Facts from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD):

• 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
• Melanoma rates are rising—especially among young women, often due to tanning bed use and UV exposure.
• Just one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double a person's chance of developing melanoma.
• When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%.

What to Look For: The ABCDEs of Melanoma

Knowing your skin and checking it regularly is your first line of defense. The AAD recommends watching for these warning signs:

• Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other.
• Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
• Color: Multiple colors or uneven shades.
• Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser (6mm).
• Evolving: Any change in size, shape, or color.

If something looks suspicious, don’t wait—see a board-certified dermatologist.

How to Reduce Your Risk

• Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ every day, even on cloudy days.
• Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Seek shade, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM.
• Never use tanning beds.
• Cover up with clothing, hats, and sunglasses.

Skin Checks Save Lives

The AAD encourages annual full-body skin exams by a dermatologist and monthly self-exams at home. Look for new or changing spots, and don’t ignore something just because it seems small.