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Egg Harbor Township District Nurses

May 2024

Egg Harbor TownshipDistrict NursesMay 2024
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May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is America’s most common cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable cancers. By sharing facts about the dangers of unprotected sun exposure and encouraging people to check their skin for warning signs, we can and will save lives.

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a time for us to speak up about the dangers of skin cancer, share the facts about sun protection and early detection to help save lives. This year, we are spreading awareness around the fact that #SkinCancerIsSerious and busting the myth that skin cancer is no big deal. You can help amplify this important message.

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When you’re outdoors, protect your skin by seeking shade, wearing sun-protective clothing, and applying sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, water resistance, and an SPF of 30 or higher. The AAD calls this Practicing Safe Sun.
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Sun protection is important every day of the year. You can get sunburned on a cloudy day and during the winter.

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You need to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating. It’s a myth that higher SPF sunscreens can be applied less frequently

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. In 2024, it’s estimated that more than 200,340 melanomas will be diagnosed and about 8,290 people will die of melanoma.

That’s why the AAD encourages everyone to begin a lifelong habit of checking their skin by performing skin self-exams. Here’s why these exams are so important:


  • Caught early, melanoma is highly treatable.

  • Melanoma can develop anywhere on the skin, including skin that’s had plenty of sun exposure and skin that’s usually protected from the sun.

  • Melanoma can develop under or around a fingernail or toenail.

  • You can find melanoma early by examining your skin for the ABCDEs of melanoma and checking your nails.

ABCDE of Melanoma

Find skin cancer: How to perform a skin self-exam

Anyone can get skin cancer, regardless of skin color, age, or gender. It is estimated that one in five people will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable

Kara Stern, Ph.D.
Director of Education & Engagement 🍎