Recognizing May 25 as Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month in Philadelphia.

Recognizing May 25 as Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month in Philadelphia. WHEREAS, Melanoma accounts for 5% of skin cancers, but 71% of skin cancer deaths, though melanoma is highly preventable, the American Cancer Society predicts there will be 104,960 new melanomas in 2025; and WHEREAS, 90% of melanoma cases are linked to UV exposure, meaning protective measures like sunscreen and avoiding tanning beds can significantly reduce risk; and WHEREAS, Despite its preventability, melanoma remains one of the deadliest skin cancers due to its potential for early metastasis and high mortality rates when diagnosed at later stages, particularly for people of color who are often diagnosed at later stages who have a significantly lower five-year melanoma-specific survival rate; and WHEREAS, Though anyone can develop melanoma, Black patients are more likely to be diagnosed at advanced stages, and their 5-year survival rate is just 66%, compared to 94% for White patients; and WHEREAS, Late-stage diagnosis disparities for people of color are fueled by misconceptions, lack of awareness and barriers to care, 65% of Black individuals report never using sunscreen, and many believe they are not at risk for skin cancer; and WHEREAS, Philadelphia has an age-adjusted incidence rate at 1.7 cases per 100,000 people and nearly 20% of those cases are diagnosed at a late stage, unfortunately, the racial disparities in late-stage diagnosis are concerning; and WHEREAS, Philadelphia County has a high…