Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. In the United States in 2007,* 58,094 people were diagnosed with melanomas of the skin, and 8,461 people died from it.† CDC leads national efforts to reduce skin cancer through education. When in the sun, seek shade, cover up, get a hat, wear sunglasses, and use sunscreen.
*Latest year for which statistics are available. †Source: USCS.
Features
Skin Cancer Prevention
Ultraviolet (UV) rays can reach you on cloudy days, as well as bright and sunny days. Learn how to protect yourself and your children.
Shade Planning for Schools [PDF-1.2MB]
This manual helps schools maintain a physical environment that supports sun safety by ensuring that school grounds have adequate shade.
Sun Safety at Schools [PDF-179KB]
School officials, parents, and health care providers can promote sun safety in schools.
Sun Safety for America’s Youth Toolkit
The Toolkit helps local comprehensive cancer control programs engage schools and other education partners in sun safety efforts.
Send a Health-e-Card!
Tell someone how to protect their skin from the sun with CDC's Skin Cancer electronic greeting card.
Contact Us:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Division of Cancer Prevention and Control
4770 Buford Hwy NE
MS K-64
Atlanta, GA 30341 - 800-CDC-INFO
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TTY: (888) 232-6348
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Monday–Friday
Closed on Holidays - cdcinfo@cdc.gov
