---
title: May is Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month
url: "https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/may-is-skin-cancer-detection-and-prevention-month/"
type: post
date_published: 2014-05-06
date_modified: 2025-12-26
schema:
  @type: Article
language: en-US
word_count: 353
reading_time: 2 min
canonical: "https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/may-is-skin-cancer-detection-and-prevention-month/"
categories:
  - "Health & Wellness"
topic:
  - "Medical Billing & Coding"
---

# May is Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month

It is getting warmer outside and turning from spring to summer very quickly…its
almost Memorial Day, where many people will spend the weekend lounging by the
pool, at the beach or cooking BBQ!  Along with all fun in the sun that summer
brings, it also brings sunburns.  Sunburns may seem like just a temporary
irritation, but can cause serious permanent damage, especially over time. 
Sunburns can lead to premature aging, sunspots and skin cancer.  Children are
especially vulnerable to sunburns, as their skin is very delicate and sensitive.

To create awareness for skin cancer including prevention, signs and symptoms,
the 
[Skin Cancer Foundation](http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/prevention-guidelines)
 has an assortment of information listed on their website with various subjects
and links to resources.  Interested in skin cancer prevention? 
**Here are a few tips:**

- Seek the shade, especially between 10am and 4pm, which are the peak hours for
  sun exposure
- Do not burn.  If you see that your skin is turning slightly pink, get out of
  the sun!
- Avoid sun tanning and UV tanning booths
- Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, every
  day
- Examine your skin head to toe monthly for any changes in texture, color or
  abnormal skin spots
- See your physician yearly for a professional skin exam

The sun is an important aspect of maintaining overall health; it does assistour
bodies in the production of vitamin D and its warmth can relax us mentally and
boost our spirits.  But remember, as with all good things, moderation to
sunlight exposure is important.  If you notice any abnormal spots, varying
texture or changes in birthmarks, contact your physician as soon as possible. 
Early detection of possible skin cancer is key.

Wanting to make a change in your future?  Are you interested in a meaningful
career in healthcare?  
[Contact Arizona College](https://www.arizonacollege.edu/request-information/) 
today to learn more about our
[Allied Health degree and diploma programs](https://www.arizonacollege.edu/all-programs/)
offered at our Glendale and Mesa campuses.

---

_Information in this blog post is accurate as of May 6, 2014._

**Categories:** Health & Wellness