By Bridget Sullivan, PA-C,  Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology 

Every year, the month of May is recognized as Melanoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating the public about melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Melanoma develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin, and although it accounts for a smaller percentage of skin cancer cases, it causes the majority of skin cancer–related deaths. Increased awareness, early detection, and preventive measures can significantly reduce the impact of this disease. 

Annual skin cancer screenings are essential for prevention and early detection. When detected and treated early (Stage 0-I), the five-year survival rate is very high, often around 99%. There are also pre-cancerous moles that can be detected and treated before evolving into a melanoma skin cancer. During a skin cancer screening and when doing self-exams at home, you should be looking out for the ABCDEs of melanoma. 

A – Asymmetry: one half of the mole does not match the other. 

B – Border: edges are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined. 

C – Color: uneven colors such as shades of brown, black, red, or white. 

D – Diameter: greater than about 6 mm, which is about the size of a pencil eraser. 

E – Evolving: any change in size, shape, color, or symptoms. 

Other signs and symptoms include moles or growths that itch, bleed, or hurt. A mole that stands out from the rest of your moles and a mole that changes quickly. 

Prevention and protection against melanoma also include sun protection and decreased UV exposure. This includes wearing an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, avoiding peak hours of sunlight, and wearing sun protective clothing. 

Melanoma Awareness Month serves as a reminder that protecting our skin is an important part of overall health. By practicing sun safety, checking our skin for changes, and seeking medical evaluation when concerns arise, we can help reduce the burden of melanoma and improve outcomes for those affected. Awareness and prevention remain powerful tools in the fight against skin cancer.