The first Monday of May is designated as Melanoma Monday, set aside to raise awareness about skin cancer.
Amidst all the statistics and numbers, what you may not realize is that melanoma is an equal opportunity disease: it doesn’t discriminate based on age, gender or ethnic background. However, a 2016 survey by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) found that men, especially those over 50, are more at risk than women of the same age. The problem may be that their knowledge lags behind women’s when it comes to skin cancer risk and the damaging effects of UV rays.
According to the survey last year:
• 56% of men know that there is no such thing as a healthy tan, compared to 76% of women
• 54% of men know that a base tan offers no protection, compared to 70% of women
• 56% of men know that skin cancer can occur on areas not normally exposed to the sun, compared to 65% of women
The difference may lie in the behavioral patterns of men versus women. Generally speaking, women may be more accustomed to taking care of their skin from an early age. The majority of advertisements for moisturizers and cosmetics, many of which contain sun filters now, are aimed at women. Many men have not made skincare and sunscreen a habit the way women have. Socially speaking, applying creams may not have been a “manly” thing to do in decades past.
Fortunately, these long-held beliefs are slowly changing as access to information has become easier. Cosmetic and skincare companies also recognize the growing demand for products that are more in tune with what men want and need.
The AAD encourages men to perform regular self-examinations for signs of skin cancer. For those hard to view areas, like the scalp or back, ask someone you trust to help. Prevention and early detection are crucial to successful treatment.
For more information on skin cancer, the signs of melanoma and free screenings in your area, visit the American Academy of Dermatology website here.
