Melanoma Monday: To raise awareness about deadly skin cancer

The first Monday in May has been dubbed "Melanoma Monday" -- a day to raise awareness about the most deadly form of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and it is estimated that one person dies from melanoma every hour.

The American Academy of Dermatology encourages everyone to make sure their skin is “Looking Good in 2016” by protecting it from the sun’s ultraviolet rays and checking it for signs of skin cancer. The organization has launched a social media campaign called #LookingGoodin2016.

Experts recommend applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of 30 or higher to exposed skin.  You can also avoid harmful sun exposure by wearing tightly woven clothing and a wide brimmed hat or seeking shade while outside.

Skin cancers can often be easily treated if they are caught early on, so if you have a new mole or an old one that has changed, or notice a growth or sore that doesn't heal, you should have it checked by a physician.

You can use the ‘ABCD' rule to help remember the signs of a suspicious mole:

  • Asymmetry: The shape of one half doesn't match the other
  • Border: Edges are ragged or blurred
  • Color: Uneven shades of brown, black, tan, red, white or blue may be present
  • Diameter: A change in size occurs (greater than 6mm)

To learn more about Melanoma Monday, click here.

To see examples of what skin cancer looks like, click here.

To find a free skin cancer screening near you, click here.