ACR 72: Melanoma Awareness Month.

WHEREAS, Melanoma is a deadly form of cancer most commonly found on the skin. It affects individuals of every race, ethnicity, and sex across the state of California; and

WHEREAS, Nearly 90 percemt of cutaneous melanomas are related to excess ultraviolet (UV) exposure, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services; and

WHEREAS, According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2022 there were 10,802 new cases of melanoma of the skin reported in the state and 809 deaths; and

WHEREAS, Sun safe behaviors, such as avoiding the sun when UV exposure is highest, seeking shade, and wearing sun-protective clothing and broad spectrum sunscreen, reduce the harmful effects of UV exposure; and

WHEREAS, Melanoma of the skin is largely treatable when detected early, but many Californians remain unaware of the signs and symptoms of this disease; and

WHEREAS, It is important to raise awareness about the dangers of melanoma, including its rare subtypes, and raise awareness about the importance of prevention and early detection in order to save lives in California; now therefore be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby declares the month of May 2025 to be Melanoma Awareness Month and encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout the state to participate in activities and events that promote awareness of melanoma and support families affected by this devastating disease, not just during May, but throughout the year; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.