Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – As April marks Melanoma Awareness Month, Dr. Mark Russell, a dermatologist at UVA Health, joined Morning News for the “Live Well” series to discuss the importance of skin cancer prevention, even during cooler spring months. “When the weather is cooler but still sunny, ultraviolet radiation is still out there,” Dr. Russell said. “Some of the people who get surprises are out on cloudy days or cooler days, and they get a little bit of sunburn.” 

Dr. Russell emphasized that skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, surpassing all other forms combined. Risk factors include fair complexion and high sun exposure, and he urged the public to monitor for moles or lesions that change in size, shape, or color. “If you have a mole on your skin that changes… those are signs that you need to be seen by a medical professional,” he noted. Prevention tips include using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

To promote early detection, UVA Health is hosting a free skin cancer screening event on Saturday, May 3rd, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Primary Care Center next to the UVA hospital. Appointments are required and can be made by calling 1-800-223-9173. Free parking, sunscreen samples, and professional evaluations will be provided. 

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