Melanoma and skin cancer affects an estimated 90,000 Canadians each year, with melanoma being the deadliest form of skin cancer. It is estimated that three people will die from melanoma each day in Canada, so raising awareness about the risks and signs of this disease is crucial. Black has become the colour associated with melanoma awareness in Canada.
Why black?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that often appears as a dark or black spot on the skin. Using black as the colour for melanoma awareness helps create a visual identity for melanoma and the melanoma and skin cancer community. Wearing black…
- Helps raise awareness of the importance of early detection and prevention of melanoma;
- Creates a united voice for those affected by melanoma and supports those currently battling the disease or have lost loved ones to it; and
- Promotes the importance of regular skin checks and sun safety.
When should I wear black?
On the first Monday of May, people worldwide wear black to support melanoma awareness and honour those affected by this deadly disease. This day is known as Melanoma Monday and marks the beginning of Melanoma Awareness Month, a month-long initiative to increase public awareness of the risks of melanoma and the importance of early detection.
By wearing black on Melanoma Monday, you can help start a conversation about the risks of skin cancer and the importance of taking preventative measures such as wearing SPF50+ sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, and getting regular skin checks. In addition to wearing black, there are many other ways to support the melanoma community during this month-long awareness campaign.
One way to show support is to share personal stories, facts, and posts about melanoma and skin cancer on social media. You can use the hashtags #MelanomaMonday and #MelanomaAwarenessMonth and tag @MelanomaCanada in your posts to help raise awareness and show your support for this cause.
Another great way to support the melanoma and skin cancer community is to give back. Donations to organizations like Melanoma Canada can help fund important initiatives like the Mole Mobile presented by Neutrogena®, a Kenvue brand, Canada’s first mobile skin cancer screening unit. Donating can also help support research efforts to find better treatments and, ultimately, a cure for melanoma.
Join us this month by taking action during Melanoma Awareness Month so we can help increase public awareness of the risks of melanoma and encourage people to take preventative measures and get regular skin checks.
