Published: May 4, 2026 | Source: Alabama Department of Public Health

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States—and it is also one of the most preventable. As May marks National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it is the perfect time to learn simple habits that protect your skin and to understand why early detection matters.

Why Sun Protection Matters

More than 5 million cases of skin cancer are treated in the U.S. every year. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Melanoma, the most serious type, is expected to cause over 8,500 deaths nationwide this year.

The good news? Most skin cancer is caused by sun exposure—and that is something we can control. Damage from the sun builds up over time, so protecting your skin today helps prevent problems tomorrow.

What Causes Skin Cancer?

The main cause of all three major types of skin cancer—melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma—is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This includes:

Natural sunlight (UVA and UVB rays)
Tanning beds
Sun lamps

In Alabama alone, more than 12,700 people were diagnosed with melanoma between 2014 and 2023. The risk is real, but so is our ability to reduce it.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Skin

Make sun safety part of your daily routine. Here is how:

Cover up. Wear a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, ears, and neck.

Wear sunglasses. Choose pairs that block both UVA and UVB rays to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them.

Use sunscreen daily. Pick a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours—or more often if you are swimming, sweating, or toweling off.

Seek shade. Stay out of direct sun during peak hours, typically from late morning through mid-afternoon.

Don't rely on the weather. UV rays can damage your skin even on cool or cloudy days. Temperature does not equal protection.

Avoid tanning beds. Indoor tanning exposes you to intense UV radiation and significantly increases your risk of skin cancer.

Know What to Look For

Early detection saves lives. Check your skin regularly and watch for:

A new growth or spot
A sore that does not heal
A change in an existing mole—such as size, shape, color, or texture
Any spot that itches, bleeds, or looks different from others

Everyone, regardless of skin color, can develop skin cancer. If you notice any changes, see a board-certified dermatologist promptly. When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable.

Make It a Habit

Sun protection is not just for the beach. It is for walking the dog, driving to work, gardening, or playing outside with family. Keep a small sun-safety kit handy—sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—so you are always ready.

By making these choices part of your routine, you protect not only your skin but also your long-term health.

For more information on skin cancer prevention and screening, visit the Cancer Prevention and Control Division resources or consult your local healthcare provider.

This article is provided by Crestwood General. Learn more at crestwoodgeneral.com