May is internationally recognized as Melanoma Awareness Month and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about prevention, sun protection, and the importance of early diagnosis.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, with melanoma being its most aggressive form. Although it accounts for a smaller proportion of skin cancer cases, it is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths.
Globally, in 2020 there were approximately 325,000 new cases of melanoma and around 57,000 deaths, with numbers expected to rise in the coming years if prevention and awareness efforts are not strengthened.
In Europe, melanoma remains one of the most common cancers, with more than 100,000 new cases annually and over 15,000 deaths each year. The incidence is higher in Northern and Western European countries, while overall UV radiation exposure is considered the main contributing factor for the majority of cases.
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, whether from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds, is the most significant risk factor for melanoma. Many cases could be prevented through proper sun protection and behavioral changes.
In countries like Greece, where sunlight exposure is high throughout much of the year, awareness and prevention are especially important. Regular skin self-examinations and dermatological check-ups can play a key role in identifying suspicious changes in moles (naevi) at an early stage.
Early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates. When detected in its initial stages, melanoma is highly treatable, whereas delayed diagnosis is associated with more aggressive disease progression. This highlights the critical importance of awareness and timely medical evaluation.
Preventive measures remain essential: using sunscreen, avoiding peak sun hours, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding artificial tanning can all significantly reduce risk.
Melanoma Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that skin health is not only an aesthetic concern but a vital part of overall health and cancer prevention.
Read also Kapa3’s article on Bladder Cancer Awareness Month.
Sources:
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) – GLOBOCAN
- European Cancer Information System (ECIS)
- European Environment Agency (EEA)
Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3