Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the most common types of cancer in the United States. Over 5 million cases are diagnosed each year, but the good news is that most are preventable with the right precautions.
Understanding what causes skin cancer, recognizing the warning signs, and practicing sun safety can go a long way in protecting your health. Early detection and affordable treatment options also make a major difference in outcomes.
What Causes Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer develops when skin cells begin to grow abnormally, often triggered by damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This exposure primarily comes from the sun or tanning beds and can cause changes to the DNA within skin cells over time. That damage can result in uncontrolled cell growth and cancer.
There are several types of skin cancer:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) – the most common and slow-growing
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) – more likely to grow deeper into the skin
- Melanoma – the least common but most dangerous, as it can spread rapidly
What Increases Your Risk of Skin Cancer?
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but certain factors can increase your risk:
- Fair skin or a tendency to burn easily
- Tanning bed use or prolonged sun exposure
- Older age or a family history of skin cancer
- Certain medical conditions, such as a weakened immune system or genetic conditions like xeroderma pigmentosum
- Long-term exposure to harmful substances like arsenic or radiation
How Can You Spot Skin Cancer Early?
Early detection is key. Look for new or changing skin lesions, including:
- A mole that changes in size, shape, or color
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- A new lump, scaly patch, or raised bump
- Bleeding or oozing from a growth
- Moles with uneven borders or multiple colors
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a check-up with your healthcare provider or a dermatologist right away.
What Are the Treatment Options for Skin Cancer?
Treatment depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer. Common options include:
- Surgical removal – The most common approach, removing cancerous tissue through excision or freezing (cryosurgery)
- Topical chemotherapy – Creams like fluorouracil (Efudex) or imiquimod (Aldara) applied to the skin to treat basal cell carcinoma or actinic keratosis
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT)– Uses light and a special medication to destroy cancer cells
- Radiation therapy – Often used when surgery isn’t an option
- Systemic treatments for advanced cases – These may include oral chemotherapy like temozolomide, or immunotherapy drugs such as pembrolizumab (Keytruda, brand only)
How Can You Prevent Skin Cancer?
Protecting your skin daily can greatly reduce your risk:
- Avoid tanning beds and limit sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours
- Wear sun-protective clothing—wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and UV-blocking sunglasses
- Stay in the shade whenever possible
- Perform regular skin self-exams and get annual screenings if you’re at higher risk
How Can the RxLess™ Assurance Plan Help You Save on Skin Cancer Treatment?
Managing the cost of skin cancer treatment can be challenging, but the RxLess™ Assurance Plan makes it easier. The free app gives you instant access to accurate discounts on prescription medications—helping you save up to 88% at thousands of local pharmacies.
Whether you’ve been prescribed a topical treatment like fluorouracil, imiquimod, or supportive medications like hydroxyzine to relieve itching and discomfort, the RxLess™ Assurance Plan can help you lower your out-of-pocket costs.
With the free RxLess™ app, you can:
- Search for discounted prices at nearby pharmacies
- Access cost-saving options without needing insurance
- Stay on track with treatment without the financial burden
Take control of your health this Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Practice prevention, stay alert to changes, and use, the RxLess™ Assurance Plan to find affordable medications when you need them most.
