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Melanoma Monday

Today is Melanoma Monday - take the time to check yourself and your loved ones for any suspicious moles or skin changes!

Monday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFirst Monday in May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to join the fight against skin cancer and show your support for Melanoma Monday on the first Monday of May! This day was created to raise awareness about melanoma, a type of skin cancer that is one of the most deadly forms of cancer. It's estimated that over 76,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year and it can happen to anyone regardless of age, race or gender. So this day is all about educating people about prevention and early detection, as well as providing resources for those who have been affected by the disease. Let's stand together and make a difference!

TIMELINE

Melanoma Monday Timeline

Melanoma Officially Classified

Melanoma was officially classified as a distinct type of skin cancer by Dr. William Sampson Handley.

Melanoma Research Foundation Established

The Melanoma Research Foundation was established to support medical research in finding effective treatments and eventually a cure for melanoma.

First Melanoma Monday

The American Academy of Dermatology designated the first Monday in May as Melanoma Monday to raise awareness of melanoma and encourage early detection through self-exams.

“Watch Your Back!" Campaign

British charity Skcin launches the “Watch Your Back” campaign, urging people, particularly gardeners and outdoor workers, to check their skin regularly.

FDA Approves New Melanoma Drug

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new drug, Yervoy, to treat melanoma, marking a significant advancement in melanoma treatment.

Virtual Melanoma Monday

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Melanoma Monday events, including educational talks and free skin cancer screenings, were held virtually for the first time.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Melanoma Monday

Check your skin

Checking your skin regularly for any changes or spots is the best way to detect skin cancer. Make sure you check all areas of your body, including hard to see places like your back, scalp, and feet.

WEAR

Wear sunscreen

Whenever you go outside, make sure to put on sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Reapply often and choose a brand with UVA and UVB protection.

EXAMINE

Examine moles

If you have any moles that are irregular in shape, size, or color, make sure to get them checked out by a dermatologist. Melanoma can present itself as a mole that is changing in size, shape, or color.

VISIT

Visit a dermatologist

Make an appointment to visit a dermatologist for a professional skin cancer screening. This is especially important if you have a family history of skin cancer.

SPREAD

Spread awareness

Share information about melanoma on social media or start a conversation with your friends and family about skin cancer prevention and early detection.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Melanoma Monday is Important

It supports research & treatments for advanced stages of skin cancer

Many of the resources raised on Melanoma Monday go towards researching more effective treatments for advanced stages of skin cancer. By helping to fund these advancements, we're one step closer to finding a cure and helping more people survive this terrible disease.

Melanoma Monday raises awareness about skin cancer risks

Every year on Melanoma Monday, people across the world take time to remember those who have been affected by melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. This day serves as an important reminder that we all need to protect ourselves against the sun's harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.

It encourages early detection of skin cancers

By participating in Melanoma Monday events, people are reminded to conduct regular self-examinations to check for any suspicious moles or patches of skin that could be potential signs of skin cancer. Many times, catching skin cancers at an early stage can greatly increase the odds of a successful recovery and remission.