2013 Assembly Joint Resolution 30
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: recognizing May as Melanoma and Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month.
Whereas, the skin is the largest and most visible organ of the body; and
Whereas, more than 3,000,000 new cases of skin cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the United States in the coming year; and
Whereas, it is estimated that more than 131,000 new cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, will be diagnosed this year, with 1,250 of those diagnosed in Wisconsin; and
Whereas, melanoma is the most common form of cancer for young adults between the ages of 25 and 29 and the second most common form of cancer for adolescents and young adults between the ages of 15 and 29; and
Whereas, more than 75 percent of all skin cancer deaths are from melanoma, and on average one person dies every hour from melanoma; and
Whereas, while melanoma can be caused by genetic factors or immune deficiencies, the most common cause is excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation, particularly through multiple sunburns during childhood or exposure to tanning devices at a young age; and
Whereas, melanoma and other skin cancers, if detected early, are highly treatable, with a survival rate of about 99 percent for patients whose melanoma is detected before the tumor has penetrated the skin, falling to 15 percent for those with advanced disease; and
Whereas, the American Cancer Society and the American Academy of Dermatology have consistently promoted melanoma and skin cancer awareness through the encouragement of prevention, early detection, and annual screening for this potentially deadly disease; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, the senate concurring, That the Wisconsin legislature formally recognizes May as Melanoma and Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month in Wisconsin; and, be it further
Resolved, That the legislature encourages the education of the citizens of Wisconsin on how to spot the warning signs of skin cancer through both skin self-examinations and skin cancer screenings by dermatologists.
