By Heather R. Kelly, MSN, RN, BCPA, CPC
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time dedicated to raising awareness about the most common cancer in the United States. This month-long observance aims to educate people on the prevention, early detection, and treatment of skin cancer, emphasizing the importance of protecting our skin and recognizing the signs of this potentially deadly disease.
Statistics
- More than 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day in the U.S.
- More than 5.4 million cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer were treated in over 3.3 million people in the U.S. in 2012
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, with an estimated 3.6 million cases diagnosed in the U.S. each year
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer, with approximately 1.8 million cases diagnosed in the U.S. each year
- The annual cost of treating skin cancers in the U.S. is estimated at $8.1 billion
Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, often developing on skin exposed to the sun. However, it can also occur in areas not ordinarily exposed to sunlight. The three major types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, with melanoma being the most serious due to its ability to spread to other parts of the body
Why Skin Cancer Awareness Month Matters
- Prevention: Skin Cancer Awareness Month highlights the importance of preventive measures. Simple actions such as wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and avoiding tanning beds can significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. By educating employees and the public on these preventive steps, we can help reduce the incidence of skin cancer.
- Early Detection: Early detection is key to successful treatment. Skin Cancer Awareness Month encourages regular self-examinations, and annual skin checks by a dermatologist. Recognizing the ABCDEs of melanoma—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving size, shape, or color—can help identify potential skin cancers early when they are most treatable.
- Education and Resources: Providing access to educational resources and dermatology services is essential. During this month, many organizations offer free skin cancer screenings and distribute informational materials to help people understand the risks and signs of skin cancer. Connecting patients with dermatologists who specialize in diverse skin types ensures that everyone receives appropriate care.
- Support and Advocacy: Skin Cancer Awareness Month also serves as a platform for advocacy and support. It brings together communities, healthcare providers, and organizations to support those affected by skin cancer and to advocate for better research, treatment options, and policies to combat this disease.
Skin Cancer Awareness Month is an important time to focus on the prevention, detection, and treatment of skin cancer. By raising awareness and providing resources, we can help protect our employees and communities from this common yet preventable disease. Let’s work together to spread the message and encourage everyone to take steps to safeguard their skin health.
Resources:
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Bio: Heather R. Kelly, MSN, RN, BCPA, CPC, is a Senior Clinical Strategist on the Medical Policy team at Aetna, where she leads initiatives to enhance clinical programs, improve access to care, and support cost-effective strategies across the enterprise. A registered nurse with more than 30 years of healthcare experience, Heather brings a strong background in oncology, hospice, palliative care, and patient advocacy. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on Care Coordination and is a Board-Certified Patient Advocate.