Title: Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Spot the Signs and Protect Your Skin
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of skin cancer and the importance of early detection. At TruckMelanoma.org, we’re especially focused on educating Motorsports enthusiasts, automotive enthusiasts, truck drivers, outdoor workers, and those in high-UV exposure roles about the risks—because melanoma and other skin cancers don’t discriminate based on occupation.
Understanding the Three Most Common Types of Skin Cancer1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

• The most common type of skin cancer.
  
• Caused primarily by long-term sun exposure.
  
• Frequently found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, and arms.
  
• May appear as a shiny bump, pink growth, or a scar-like lesion.
  
• Early skin cancer detection can prevent tissue damage and disfigurement.
  

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

• The second most common form.
  
• Often presents as a rough, red patch, scaly bump, or open sore.
  
• Occurs in sun-damaged skin, especially in fair-skinned individuals.
  
• SCC can spread if untreated—prompt skin cancer diagnosis is key.
  

3. Melanoma

• The most aggressive and deadly type of skin cancer.
  
• Can develop from existing moles or appear as a new, dark spot on the skin.
  
• Melanoma symptoms include rapid changes in shape, color, or size of a mole.
  
• It can spread quickly to lymph nodes and internal organs if not caught early.
  

Melanoma Risk FactorsWhile everyone should be cautious, some individuals have higher melanoma risk factors, including:

• Fair skin, light hair, and blue or green eyes
  
• A history of severe sunburns or frequent tanning
  
• Family history of melanoma
  
• A large number of moles or atypical moles
  
• Occupations with high UV exposure—like long-haul truck drivers, construction workers, road workers etc. 
  

How to Spot a Skin Lesion with Warning SignsThe best way to protect yourself is through early melanoma detection. Use the ABCDE method to examine your skin regularly:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
  
• B – Border: Uneven or jagged edges.
  
• C – Color: Multiple shades of brown, black, blue, red, or white.
  
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (pencil eraser size).
  
• E – Evolving: Any visible change in shape, size, or texture.
  

If you notice a suspicious skin lesion, don’t wait--schedule a skin check with a dermatologist immediately.
Melanoma and Driving: What You Need to KnowUV rays penetrate vehicle windows, meaning truckers and other drivers are at increased risk—especially on the left side of the body. This makes truck driver melanoma a serious occupational concern.
Tips for Skin Cancer Prevention on the Road:

• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, even when inside a vehicle.
  
• Wear UV-protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats.
  
• Use UV-filtering window film in your cab.
  
• Perform monthly self-exams for skin lesion warning signs.
  
• Get a professional skin exam annually.
  

Melanoma awareness saves lives.
This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, take a moment to examine your skin and talk to others about the importance of early detection. Whether you’re a driver, technician, or work under the sun, protecting your skin today could save your life tomorrow.


Stay informed. Stay protected.
Visit TruckMelanoma.org for more resources on melanoma prevention, diagnosis, and support.