American Academy of Dermatology designates first Monday in May as Melanoma Monday

Warm weather is a blessing for a number of Americans. The thing is especially true for those living in the Northeast, who will get a chance to soak up the sun after such a long winter. But in this excitement, it cannot be forgotten that sun exposure is the leading cause of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

In such a scenario, it is vital to take steps to protect one. The American Academy of Dermatology said that back is the most common place of the body where melanoma develops. Also, it is difficult to see that part of body therefore it is often discovered later and requires more extensive treatment.

In order to raise awareness, the American Academy of Dermatology has announced May 4 #MelanomaMonday. It has even launched a public awareness campaign to encourage Americans to be conscious and check their backs.

“Before you head outside, it's important to apply a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor [SPF] of 30 or higher to all exposed skin, including the back”, affirmed Academy president Mark Lebwohl.

A survey was carried out, as per which, 37% of people rarely or never applies sunscreen to their back when it is exposed to the sun. Not only this, 43% rarely or never ask anyone to help apply sunscreen to their back.

More numbers of men in comparison to women do not feel comfortable asking someone to help apply sunscreen on their back. But doctors said that people need to change this habit and ask someone who could apply sunscreen to their back.

Every year, more than 3.5 million people are diagnosed with skin cancer in America, unveiled American Cancer Society.