HR0273 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0273 LRB104 13264 MST 25471 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Melanoma is the most lethal form of skin cancer, accounting for nearly 75% of skin cancer deaths despite representing a smaller portion of total skin cancer cases; and

WHEREAS, In 2025, approximately 104,960 new cases of melanoma are expected to be diagnosed in the United States, with an estimated 8,430 deaths; and

WHEREAS, Melanoma can spread rapidly and metastasize to distant parts of the body, drastically reducing survival rates when not detected early; and

WHEREAS, Early detection is crucial; when melanoma is caught in its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate is approximately 99%, but that rate drops significantly once the cancer has spread; and

WHEREAS, While excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure is a major risk factor, genetic predispositions also contribute substantially to melanoma risk, with approximately 10% of all cases being hereditary; and

WHEREAS, The Melanoma Research Foundation urges both the public and healthcare providers to prioritize prevention and regular screening to detect melanoma early; and

WHEREAS, Preventative actions can dramatically reduce the risk of developing melanoma and improve outcomes; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we encourage all residents to follow the prevention guidance provided by the Melanoma Research Foundation, which includes:

(1) Seek shade when possible, particularly between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. when UV rays are strongest; checking the daily UV index can help inform decisions about outdoor activities;

(2) Cover up and use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and wear sun-protective clothing year-round; apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating; be aware that 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, and water, sand, and snow reflect and intensify exposure;

(3) Avoid tanning and sunburns entirely; there is no such thing as a safe tan; one indoor tanning session increases the risk of developing melanoma by 75%; skin damage is cumulative and significantly increases long-term cancer risk; and

(4) Perform monthly self-skin exams; individuals are most likely to be the first to notice suspicious changes; regularly inspect skin and moles using the ABCDEs of melanoma, asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter over 6mm, and evolving shape or color; photograph moles or use mole-mapping apps to track changes and use mirrors to examine hard-to-see areas; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we urge Illinois healthcare providers to promote early skin checks and educate patients on both UV safety and genetic risk factors for melanoma; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we support increased funding for melanoma education, outreach, and screening programs throughout the State; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be delivered to the Melanoma Research Foundation and be made available to the public as part of an awareness campaign during National Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May.