The Friday before Memorial Day is recognized as National Don’t Fry Day, an initiative established by the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention to promote sun safety and encourage the use of protective measures like sunscreen when outdoors. While the sun offers benefits such as vitamin D production, protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays remains essential.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Many cases, including basal and squamous cell cancers, typically do not spread and can be treated with minimally invasive surgery. However, melanoma, the most serious form, can metastasize, making early detection critical to reduce health risks.
Regarding skin cancer screenings, the US Preventive Services Task Force has stated there is insufficient evidence to recommend routine visual screenings for asymptomatic adolescents and adults by primary care providers. Nevertheless, the American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes that this does not undermine the value of dermatological exams, especially for those with a history of skin cancer or suspicious spots. Regular self-examination of the skin is widely encouraged, with experts suggesting that the end of summer may be an ideal time to check for changes, as fading tans can make abnormalities easier to spot.
People are advised to seek professional evaluation if they notice any moles or freckles that have changed in appearance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the “ABCDE” warning signs for melanoma: asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color, a diameter larger than a pea, and evolving size or shape.
While melanoma is the most common and dangerous type of skin cancer, other less frequent types such as sebaceous carcinoma and Merkel cell carcinoma also pose a risk of spreading.
In terms of medical advances, a promising skin cancer vaccine is under development. Last summer, researchers announced an mRNA vaccine developed by Moderna and Merck showed a 44% reduction in melanoma recurrence and death risk when combined with traditional immunotherapy (pembrolizumab), compared to immunotherapy alone. The phase 2b trial results were published in spring 2023, and a late-stage clinical trial began last year. Though FDA approval remains years away, this vaccine could revolutionize treatment not only for skin cancer but potentially for other cancers as well. Dr. Jeffrey Weber, senior investigator of the trial, noted that despite numerous cancer vaccine trials, this is among the first to demonstrate clear clinical benefits.
Skin cancer is less common among people with darker skin tones due to higher melanin levels that offer protection from UV rays. However, individuals of Black, Hispanic, or Asian descent remain at risk, particularly for melanoma types that occur in less obvious areas such as palms, soles, under nails, and mucosal regions, which are unrelated to sun exposure. These types may be harder to detect and are often diagnosed later, leading to worse outcomes. Recent research found that Black men face a 26% higher risk of dying from melanoma compared to white men, despite overall lower incidence. This supports earlier CDC findings showing lower melanoma survival rates in Black Americans and calls for increased awareness of acral lentiginous melanoma among both providers and patients.
To reduce the risk of skin cancer, experts advise diligent protection from UV rays by using sunscreen, wearing hats, and opting for breathable clothing outdoors. Avoiding indoor tanning beds is also strongly recommended. Beyond professional check-ups, regular self-monitoring of the skin, especially after significant sun exposure or when noticing suspicious blemishes, remains a vital step in early detection and prevention.
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