Assembly Resolution No. 586

BY: M. of A. Lunsford

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
May 2025, as Melanoma Awareness Month in the State
of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to memorialize
Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2025, as Melanoma Awareness Month
in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National
Melanoma Month; and

WHEREAS, The American Academy of Dermatology has designated National
Melanoma Month to raise awareness about skin cancer; many events have
been planned focused on skin health, sun safety, tanning prevention, and
skin cancer screening and resources; and

WHEREAS, Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United
States, and Melanoma is one of the most common cancers in young people
under 30, especially in young women; and

WHEREAS, Melanoma can appear on any area of the body, including the
eyes and internal organs; and

WHEREAS, Often the first sign of Melanoma is a change in the shape,
color, size, or feel of an existing mole or the appearance of a new
mole; and

WHEREAS, According to the American Cancer Society, it is anticipated
that this year approximately 104,960 new cases of malignant Melanoma
will be diagnosed in the United States; and

WHEREAS, It is estimated by the American Cancer Society that there
will be approximately 8,430 deaths attributable to malignant Melanoma in
2025; and

WHEREAS, 86 percent of Melanomas are caused by solar ultraviolet
(UV) rays; and

WHEREAS, To prevent Melanoma, it is recommended to avoid using
tanning beds, excessive exposure to the sun, especially between the
hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when its rays are the strongest, and to wear
sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and pants; and

WHEREAS, Regular daily use of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen reduces
the risk of developing Melanoma by 50 percent; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body affirms its commitment to promote an
environment which supports and encourages vigorous research activities,
and the institutions engaged in those activities, to further skin cancer
research; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body also reaffirms its commitment to
foster efforts directed at the advancement of detection, diagnosis, and
treatment of Melanoma; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2025, as Melanoma
Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.