Brazil Issues Summer Reminders on Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection

Overview

• Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Brazil, accounting for roughly 30% of diagnoses and more than 220,000 new cases each year, according to the Brazilian Society of Dermatology.
• Ultraviolet radiation is the principal risk factor, with cumulative exposure and sunburns increasing risk, particularly for fair‑skinned people, outdoor workers, the elderly, and those with family history.
• Doctors highlight two main groups: non‑melanoma cancers (basal and squamous cell) are far more common and usually curable when found early, while melanoma is less frequent but more aggressive.
• Prevention guidance emphasizes daily sunscreen, shade during peak sun hours, protective clothing and eyewear, and avoiding artificial tanning, which is classified as carcinogenic and is banned in Brazil.
• Public advice urges regular self‑checks using the ABCDE rule and prompt dermatology visits for lesions that change, bleed, itch, crust, or fail to heal, with early diagnosis linked to cure rates above 90%.