Melanoma Monday
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that might not be as common as others, but it is one of the more dangerous forms of skin cancer because it is more likely to spread.
Melanoma Monday seeks to educate and inform people about the warning signs, risks and preventative actions that can help everyone be informed about this particular skin cancer, the impact of which can be mitigated if it’s caught early.
How to Celebrate Melanoma Monday
Learn Important Facts About Melanoma
The reason that this particular skin cancer has been singled out for special attention on Melanoma Monday is because it is particularly dangerous if allowed to progress.
That’s why having an informed public is the best defense against melanoma is for everyone to be aware about the facts behind it.
Take a look at some of these important facts about this skin disease as a way to participate with Melanoma Monday:
- Melanoma is 20 times more common in people with white skin
- The risk of melanoma is higher if a close family member has also had it
- One of the most common cancers in young adults in the US, melanoma is the 3rd most diagnosed cancer in the age group from 25-39
- The use of tanning beds before the age of 35 increases the risk of melanoma by 75%
Perform Regular Skin Checks
Working preventatively against melanoma means performing regular skin checks to stay apprised of any changes that might indicate cancer.
Individuals can perform their own self-exams by paying attention to the different moles or freckles and noting changes. It might even be helpful to take a photo of any that look suspicious.
Get a Professional Skin Check
Also, dermatologists recommend that a medical professional performs a full body skin check at least once a year. The founders of Melanoma Monday, the AAD, offer free skin checks so contact them for more information.
Other events that can be celebrated in relationship to Melanoma Monday include Don’t Fry Day on May 23, Cancer from the Sun Month in June, and National Healthy Skin Month in November.
History of Melanoma Monday
Melanoma Monday was started in 1995 by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) to raise awareness and improve public education about this type of skin cancer. This annual event was started to bring attention to the ways that individuals can take action to protect themselves with regular skin care checks.
Melanoma Monday is celebrated as a special day that is aligned with the larger overall observance of Skin Cancer Awareness Month.
A wide range of different health organizations and medical professionals promote Melanoma Monday with the purpose of empowering people to take care of their own skin. Armed with an understanding of warning signs and preventative care, the ultimate goal is to help create a world without skin cancer!
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