The Canadian Dermatology Association provides an important reminder to Canadians on how to protect themselves and their families from harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause skin cancer during Sunscreen Awareness Month throughout May.

Sudbury City Council member Mike Jacobo told CTV News that he first noticed a spot on his left cheek in the fall of 2017. Jacobo said, "Only my wife and I saw a spot on my cheek that didn’t go away, it was progressing and changing. Once we discovered it was skin cancer, we contacted the specialist and then followed his guidance by taking the necessary tests and entering the treatment phase."

"I underwent surgery in less than a week and it was immediately removed because with skin cancer, there is no treatment other than successful removal." Local dermatologist Lyn Giro told CTV News that there are some things to look for and verify because these types of cancers vary in appearance and color, and she also confirmed that early diagnosis is the first step in treatment.

She said there are things people can do to prevent it. "Sunscreen is an important part, but it is not a radical solution, so it is best to stay away as much as possible from the scorching sun especially during the hottest times."