Skin Cancer Awareness Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

Skin Cancer Awareness Month

WHEREAS, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and one of the most common cancers in Virginia; and

WHEREAS, individuals living in Virginia were diagnosed with melanoma - the deadliest type of skin cancer - at a rate of 21.0 new cases per 100,000 people from 2018 through 2022, and died from melanoma at a rate of 2.0 per 100,000 population; and

WHEREAS, skin cancer is considered one of the most preventable cancers, and people can actively reduce their risk of skin cancer by applying sunscreen, wearing sun protective gear, seeking shade, avoiding artificial sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, performing monthly self-examinations, and annual health care visits; and

WHEREAS, Skin Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to encourage individuals to protect their skin, especially as the summer months begin, and to promote sun safety awareness and education in our communities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize May 2026, as SKIN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.