May is considered Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Its main goal is to provide the population with correct information about skin cancer, especially melanoma. Skin cancer is among the most common oncological diseases, and melanoma, its most aggressive form, poses a serious threat to life if not detected in time.

There are several types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma is relatively rare, but very dangerous, as it progresses quickly and has a high risk of metastasizing. Its development usually starts in the skin cells responsible for pigmentation - melanocytes.

The main risk factors include: excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, frequent use of solarium (tanning beds), fair skin color, multiple moles, and genetic predisposition. According to studies, the survival rate of melanoma detected at an early stage reaches 99%.

Prevention and early diagnosis are the most important means of controlling skin cancer. That is why various information campaigns are held around the world during the month of May, which aim to provide the population with the following recommendations:

• Protection from the sun - daily use of sunscreen, especially during high UV index conditions;
• Avoiding tanning beds - evidence-based studies confirm that tanning beds increase the risk of developing melanoma;
• Self-examination and regular consultations with a dermatologist.

Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month is an important opportunity for the public to take responsibility for their health and take preventive measures. Early detection of the disease is the best way to stay healthy, and awareness is the main means of its prevention.