CHRISTUS Health marks Skin Cancer Awareness Month with focus on prevention, early detection

As days grow longer and sun exposure increases, CHRISTUS Health is raising awareness about the importance of early detection, sun protection and the risks associated with skin cancer through its integrated, reliable, personal and accessible approach to care.

With more than five million cases diagnosed each year in the United States, skin cancer remains the most common cancer in the country. While it is highly treatable, providers across CHRISTUS Health stress that prevention and early intervention are critical to improving outcomes.

“Skin cancer is largely preventable, yet it remains a major public health concern,” said Dr. Sunil Patel, oncologist with CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic in Texarkana. “Awareness and early action are key. When detected early, outcomes are significantly better.”

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or indoor tanning is the leading cause of skin cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Providers encourage daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and limiting time in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours.

“Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is essential,” said Dr. Natalie Sullivan, radiation oncologist with CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria. “It’s also important to wear protective clothing and stay in the shade, particularly during the sun’s peak hours.”

Across CHRISTUS Health, clinicians emphasize that understanding personal risk factors and taking preventive steps can make a meaningful difference. These include knowing family history, avoiding tanning beds, scheduling routine skin checks and performing monthly self-exams.

“Taking ten minutes a month to check your skin is a small investment for a lifetime of health,” Patel said. “Early detection isn’t just about survival rates. It’s also peace of mind.”

Melanoma accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers but causes the majority of skin cancer deaths. When detected early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 99%, underscoring the importance of regular screenings and awareness.

For Jennifer Cory, director of the CHRISTUS Cancer Center in Shreveport, the message is both professional and personal after a screening identified a concerning spot on her hand.

“It really brought home how important early detection is,” Cory said. “Something small that could have easily been overlooked turned into an important reminder about self-care and staying on top of your health.”

Cory said community screenings play a key role in connecting patients with care in ways that are accessible and impactful.

“Community screenings are so valuable because they meet people where they are,” she said. “They’re accessible and create awareness, encourage conversations and ultimately lead to better outcomes.”

Providers across CHRISTUS Health emphasize that protecting the skin should be part of everyday health routines.

“Your skin is your body’s largest organ, so caring for it should be top priority,” Sullivan said. “While a tan may fade, the damage from unprotected sun exposure can be long-lasting. Melanoma can impact people of all ages, genders and races.”

As part of its ongoing commitment to provide integrated and reliable cancer care that is personal and accessible to every community it serves, CHRISTUS Health encourages individuals to prioritize prevention and regular screenings.

“Your skin is your body’s largest organ and protecting it should be part of your everyday routine,” Patel said. “Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, race or gender.”