Bill > AJR233

Introduced Session

This joint resolution would designate May of each year as "Skin Cancer Awareness Month" in New Jersey in order to recognize the dangers of skin cancers and to promote prevention and early detection. Skin cancer, the most common form of cancer, occurs when there is damage to deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, in skin cells, most often from excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and tanning beds. Other causes include exposure to certain chemicals, environmental carcinogens, ionizing radiation, weakened immune systems, and some genetic factors or inherited conditions. Skin cancer is categorized as either non-melanoma or melanoma. Non-melanoma skin cancers, like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, often appear as slow-growing bumps or patches on sun-exposed skin. An estimated 5.4 million Americans are diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma each year. Despite a high rate of recovery, estimates suggest that up to 8,000 people die of non-melanoma skin cancer every year in the United States. Melanoma is less common but far more dangerous due to its aggressive nature and higher likelihood of spreading quickly, originating from pigment cells and often appearing as dark, irregular spots or changing moles. While melanomas can result from a variety of causes, the vast majority are caused by the sun. An estimated 212,200 individuals in the United States will be diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer in 2025, of which 8,430 are anticipated to die. The best form of skin cancer prevention requires a comprehensive approach to protection from harmful ultraviolent radiation, including: seeking shade between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, avoiding tanning outdoors, never using tanning beds, and applying sun block daily. People are also advised to examine their skin regularly for the warning signs of skin cancer, and to see their physicians annually for a professional skin exam. This joint resolution requires the Governor to issue an annual proclamation calling upon public officials and the citizens of this State to observe "Skin Cancer Awareness Month" with appropriate activities and programs that educate the residents of New Jersey on the dangers of skin cancer and of the importance of preventative measures and early detection.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Gerry Scharfenberger (R)*,  Michael Inganamort (R),  Gregory Myhre (R),  Brian Rumpf (R), 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Health Committee (on 11/17/2025)

Official Document