Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Skin cancer prevention: BVDD continues May 2026 campaign

In May 2026, skin cancer prevention will again be the focus of a nationwide initiative by the German Association of Dermatologists in Private Practice (BVDD). Under the motto “Mach mit, schütze Dich!”, the association is continuing its “Gemeinsam gegen Hautkrebs” campaign, highlighting UV protection and the importance of early detection.

The initiative is underpinned by recent case numbers. According to the Institute for Cancer Epidemiology in Lübeck, around 374,000 skin cancer cases were recorded in Germany in 2023, including about 48,000 malignant melanomas, 132,000 squamous cell carcinomas and 194,000 basal cell carcinomas.

Dermatology practices as the key interface

For the awareness month, the BVDD is positioning dermatology practices as the central point of contact to inform patients about risk factors, prevention and the relevance of regular skin cancer screening. Together with the German Dermatological Society, the BVDD provides a comprehensive package of measures to support participating practices.

Infographic, UV camera content and social channels

One new element is an infographic developed with Statista. It presents current data in an accessible format and is designed for use in practices and online.

The updated UV camera initiative remains another key pillar. Newly produced videos with professional voice-over address typical gaps in everyday sun protection and aim to increase awareness of effective protective behaviour. In parallel, the campaign’s presence on social platforms such as Instagram and LinkedIn is being expanded to reach the general public and the medical community.

Practice materials for daily workflows

The BVDD is again offering practices a campaign kit that includes an updated poster and a flyer. The aim is to make it easier to integrate prevention messages into waiting rooms, consultations and patient education.

Education for children is being broadened

Prevention efforts targeting children are also being strengthened. The former kindergarten activity has been expanded into the “BVDD-Sonnenheroes” initiative and, for the first time, also addresses primary school children. The BVDD reports that 134 training appointments are already fully booked. Additional materials for practices and parents are available online.

Overall, the May awareness month is intended not only as a public-facing campaign but also as a practical tool to embed prevention and early detection more firmly in routine care over the long term.