Why Arizonans Are at Greater Risk for Skin Cancer — and What You Can Do About It

By Sandy Turner, FNP

Age with Grace, Body Contouring, Aesthetics, & Wellness

Living in Arizona has its perks—beautiful weather, endless sunshine, and outdoor adventure year-round. But there is a serious side to our desert lifestyle: Arizona consistently ranks among the highest in the country for skin cancer rates, including melanoma, the deadliest form.

A recent report by City of Hope Cancer Center highlights that melanoma rates in Arizona are up to 40% higher than national averages. Several key factors contribute to this:

Extended UV Exposure: In 2023, Phoenix experienced “high” to “extreme” UV levels for over six months straight. That kind of chronic exposure increases the risk of skin cell DNA damage, which can lead to melanoma and other skin cancers.

Population Risk: Much of Arizona’s rapidly growing population is fair-skinned—a major risk factor, as lighter skin has less natural protection against UV damage.

Early-Life Sun Damage: One of the strongest links to melanoma is intense sunburns during childhood. This underscores how crucial sun safety is from an early age.

Warming Climate: As Arizona continues to heat up, UV exposure intensifies. Even brief outdoor activity without protection adds up over time.

How to Protect Your Skin — Daily and Year-Round

The best way to fight skin cancer is prevention and early detection. Here are evidence-based strategies I recommend to all my patients:

Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Daily

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays).

SPF 30 is the minimum for daily use

SPF 50+ is ideal if you spend time outdoors, especially during peak hours

Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating

My go-to sunscreen recommendations: Skin Better sun better Advanced Mineral Protection Broad-Spectrum SPF 75 – great for your face/neck, sensitive or acne-prone skin

La Roche-Posay SPF 60 – lightweight and high UVA/UVB protection

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel SPF 50 – affordable and hydrating

For kids: Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen (Sensitive) or Thinkbaby SPF 50+

Wear Protective Clothing

Wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and long-sleeve UPF-rated clothing offer an added barrier.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

Try to stay indoors or in the shade between 10 AM – 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest.

Skip Tanning Beds

Tanning beds significantly increase melanoma risk and offer no health benefit. There is no such thing as a "safe tan."

Perform Monthly Skin Self-Exams

Check your skin from head to toe once a month. Look for:

New or changing moles or spots

Sores that do not heal

The ABCDE signs of melanoma:

• Asymmetry

• Border irregularity

• Color variation

• Diameter over 6 mm

• Evolving size, shape, or texture

If you notice any of these, don’t wait—schedule an exam with your primary care provider or dermatologist.

Advances in Treatment

While skin cancer rates are rising, survival is improving thanks to early detection and evolving treatments, including immunotherapies and genomic-based approaches. The earlier it is caught, the more treatable it is.

If you are concerned about your skin, or just want peace of mind, I am always here to help guide you toward safe, healthy skin—especially under the Arizona sun.

Let’s stay sun-smart and proactive. Your skin is worth it.