Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). While melanoma accounts for a small portion of skin cancers, it is actually one of the most common cancers among young adults, especially women.

In 2025, the ACS estimates that:

Anyone of any race or ethnicity can get melanoma. About 1 in 33 white people, 1 in 200 Hispanic people and 1 in 1,000 Black people get melanoma in their lifetime.

Melanoma can appear on normal skin or begin as a mole or other area that changes in appearance. It is caused by changes in cells called melanocytes, which produce melanin, the skin pigment responsible for hair and skin color.

Providers with the UofL Health – Brown Cancer Center Skin Cancer and Melanoma team recommend regular skin self-exams after a shower or bath. It’s best to begin by learning where your birthmarks, moles and blemishes are, and what they usually look and feel like.

Using a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror, check for anything new:

Check yourself from head to toe, including all areas and crevices of the skin.

Remembering your “ABCDEs” can help you remember what to watch for:

Be alert to any kind of change in a mole. The four most common and most significant signs of change are a mole or skin area that:

• Ultraviolet radiation exposure from the sun or a tanning bed

During your skin self-exam, if you find something suspicious, call your primary care provider, who can refer you to a dermatologist. If you need a primary care provider, call UofL Physicians – Primary Care at 502-588-4343 to make an appointment.

Chris Sutton had melanoma but now has a bright future thanks to the UofL Health – Brown Cancer Center. Call 502-562-HOPE (4673) to let one of our nurse navigators help you get started on your path toward getting treatment.