Dr Gross on Raising Awareness for Skin Cancer in Light of Melanoma Monday

“I’m still surprised at the number of patients who seem surprised when I tell them that…this cancer was from sun exposure, even in the past. Greater awareness around risk factors for sun exposure, how to watch for early signs of skin cancer, and [ways to] better protect ourselves and future generations from the disease [are critical].”

Neil D. Gross, MD, FACS, director of Clinical Research in the Department of Head and Neck Surgery at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, discussed the importance of year-round vigilance when it comes to skin cancer prevention and education in recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month and Melanoma Monday.

Although May serves as a focal point for public health messaging on skin cancer, awareness should not be confined to a single month, given the high prevalence of skin cancers, including melanoma, Gross said. With initiatives like Melanoma Monday drawing attention to prevention and early detection, Gross highlighted the persistent gap in public understanding. Despite widespread information campaigns, many patients remain unaware of the long-term effects of sun exposure. Gross noted that patients are often surprised to learn that their melanoma is linked to ultraviolet (UV) exposure that may have occurred years or even decades earlier. This highlights a critical need for improved education around cumulative sun damage and its role in cancer development.

Increasing awareness of known risk factors—particularly intermittent and chronic sun exposure—is essential. Equally important is educating individuals on how to recognize early warning signs of skin cancer, such as changes in the size, shape, or color of moles and other skin lesions. Early detection remains one of the most effective ways to improve outcomes, as melanoma is significantly more treatable when identified at an early stage.

Prevention is another central theme. Gross called for consistent sun-protective behaviors, including the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoidance of peak UV hours. These measures are not only relevant for individuals today but are crucial for safeguarding future generations from preventable skin cancers.

Ultimately, the message is clear: while awareness campaigns provide an important platform, sustained education and behavioral change are necessary to reduce the burden of skin cancer, Gross concluded. By reinforcing the link between sun exposure and melanoma risk, oncologists and public health efforts can better equip individuals to take proactive steps in prevention and early detection.