emirates7 - Living in the UAE, it’s easy to underestimate how harsh the sun really is. We enjoy tanning, brunching, and beach weekends without thinking much about the risks. However, local dermatologists are increasingly concerned that even those who consider themselves careful about sun exposure aren’t fully aware of the dangers posed by the region’s intense UV radiation. As a result, more cases are appearing in clinics across the Emirates.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and I’ve personally witnessed how frequently people ignore early warning signs of serious skin damage. Skin cancer isn’t just a risk for fair-skinned beachgoers—it affects everyone, regardless of skin tone, age, or gender.
According to the UAE National Cancer Registry, skin cancer has become the fourth most common cancer in the country, with roughly 400 new cases diagnosed each year—double the number from ten years ago.
So, why is this happening? It largely comes down to habits and awareness. Many assume they’re protected because they used sunscreen while on vacation or tanned safely in Europe. But here, the UV index is often dangerously high throughout the year. When combined with a culture that embraces outdoor living, this creates a risky situation.
We frequently see patients who ignored a suspicious mole or skin growth for months or even years, thinking it was harmless. By the time they seek medical help, treatment options can be limited.
Our goal is for families to make skin checks a regular part of their health routine—without fear or fuss, simply as a form of prevention.
But this shouldn’t be just a seasonal reminder; it requires a shift in mindset.
Too often, people believe children don’t need sun protection or that darker skin tones are immune to damage. This misconception is dangerous. Sun damage begins early in life, so raising awareness from childhood is crucial.
It doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by using the ABCDE rule when examining moles:
Asymmetry
Border irregularity
Colour variation
Diameter larger than 6mm
Evolving over time
Make daily sun protection a habit—yes, even when you’re in the car or indoors. Hats, sunglasses, long sleeves, and high-SPF sunscreen should be essentials, not occasional.
While many moles are harmless, some aren’t—and early detection can save lives. As a community that values wellness, luxury, and lifestyle, shouldn’t skin health be a top priority?
Let’s stop waiting for symptoms. Let’s make skin check-ups routine. Let’s treat prevention with the same importance as aesthetics. Because when it comes to skin cancer, silence can be deadly.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and I’ve personally witnessed how frequently people ignore early warning signs of serious skin damage. Skin cancer isn’t just a risk for fair-skinned beachgoers—it affects everyone, regardless of skin tone, age, or gender.
According to the UAE National Cancer Registry, skin cancer has become the fourth most common cancer in the country, with roughly 400 new cases diagnosed each year—double the number from ten years ago.
So, why is this happening? It largely comes down to habits and awareness. Many assume they’re protected because they used sunscreen while on vacation or tanned safely in Europe. But here, the UV index is often dangerously high throughout the year. When combined with a culture that embraces outdoor living, this creates a risky situation.
We frequently see patients who ignored a suspicious mole or skin growth for months or even years, thinking it was harmless. By the time they seek medical help, treatment options can be limited.
Our goal is for families to make skin checks a regular part of their health routine—without fear or fuss, simply as a form of prevention.
But this shouldn’t be just a seasonal reminder; it requires a shift in mindset.
Too often, people believe children don’t need sun protection or that darker skin tones are immune to damage. This misconception is dangerous. Sun damage begins early in life, so raising awareness from childhood is crucial.
It doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by using the ABCDE rule when examining moles:
Asymmetry
Border irregularity
Colour variation
Diameter larger than 6mm
Evolving over time
Make daily sun protection a habit—yes, even when you’re in the car or indoors. Hats, sunglasses, long sleeves, and high-SPF sunscreen should be essentials, not occasional.
While many moles are harmless, some aren’t—and early detection can save lives. As a community that values wellness, luxury, and lifestyle, shouldn’t skin health be a top priority?
Let’s stop waiting for symptoms. Let’s make skin check-ups routine. Let’s treat prevention with the same importance as aesthetics. Because when it comes to skin cancer, silence can be deadly.