Observed on the first Monday in May, Melanoma Monday is a holiday that originated from an awareness campaign developed during National Melanoma Month. It is a day designed to raise awareness about skin cancer, its prevention, and the treatments available when caught early enough.

Melanoma is just one of several types of skin cancer, but it is also one of the deadliest forms. That is why we recommend everyone take the time to observe this holiday. We also encourage people to donate to organizations researching skin cancers so that one day we can rid the world of these diseases once and for all.

The History of Melanoma Monday

This holiday was created in the 1980s by the American Academy of Dermatology to raise awareness about skin cancer. Since its creation, this holiday has begun to be observed by people all around the globe.

Important Facts About Skin Cancer

Let’s take a few moments to talk about skin cancer. Below are some facts that we have learned about it while researching this holiday.

• Approximately 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they are 70 years old.
• Every hour in the U.S., more than two people die of skin cancer.
• Having five or more sunburns doubles a person’s chance of developing melanoma.
• If detected early enough, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%.
• About 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with UV radiation exposure from the sun.

Observing Melanoma Monday

On this holiday, learn more about melanoma and the measures you can take to prevent it. If you have any unusual moles or spots on your skin, it is also a good idea to get screened for skin cancer.

People also wear orange for skin cancer awareness, not just on this holiday but throughout National Melanoma Month. And finally, people can use the hashtag #MelanomaMonday to spread the word about this holiday to everyone around the world.