May 28, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Highlights the Importance of Skin Protection to Prevent Cancer
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month
WARRENTON, Va. – It’s the time of the year when people of all ages are spending more time outdoors and have more exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and it is the sixth most common type of cancer in Virginia. Skin Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to make your skin a priority. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Department encourages everyone to take the necessary steps to protect your skin.
“Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, yet it is also one of the most preventable,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “During Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to take simple protective measures, such as using sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing, to reduce their risk and protect their long-term health.”
The sun can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. Too much exposure to UV light can put you at risk for skin cancer. The good news is that it’s preventable. Finding skin cancer early improves the chances of it being treated successfully.
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District recommends taking steps to avoid skin cancer by following these preventative measures.
- Wear sunscreen containing a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.
- Wear protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, long sleeves and pants when possible.
- Spend time in the shade.
- Avoid peak sunlight hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Regular skin self-exams are especially important for those who may be at higher risk of skin cancer. These groups include:
- People with reduced immunity.
- Those who have previously had skin cancer.
- Individuals with excessive moles or other skin spots.
- Anyone who may have a strong family history of skin cancer.
If you find something unusual on your skin, contact your health care provider so that it can be evaluated and treated early.
For additional information on how to protect yourself, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Department at www.rrhd.org or email cancer@vdh.virginia.gov.