What Is Actinic Keratosis (AK), and Why Should You Pay Attention?

Global AK Awareness Day | May 24

Photo credit: Canva

During May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Skin Cancer Champions continues to bring global awareness to the importance of knowing the facts around skin cancer. On May 24, we recognize Global Actinic Keratosis (AK) Awareness Day by sharing critical information about this precancerous skin condition.

AK is one of the most common precancerous skin conditions, affecting millions of people each year. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, an estimated 58 million Americans are living with one or more actinic keratoses. AK results from cumulative sun exposure and, if left untreated, can develop into certain types of skin cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer screenings are an effective way to catch these changes early, and treatment is highly effective.

Signs to Watch For

If you notice any of the following, it's worth a conversation with your dermatologist:

• Patches on sun-exposed skin that feel rough or gritty and won't clear up

• Flat or slightly raised bumps in areas that get regular sunlight

• Skin spots that appear pink, red, or brownish in color

• Areas that occasionally itch, sting, or feel tender to the touch.

These can be easy to overlook or brush off. Don't. Your skin is telling you something.

Spreading the Word to Take Early Action

Companies like Sun Pharma are using their platforms to raise awareness. Earlier this year, the Company launched SUNday, a campaign to reinforce that skin cancer awareness and care extend far beyond designated awareness months or singular moments in time.

"Skin cancer remains one of the most common cancers in the United States, with more than 5 million cases of skin cancer diagnosed each year. As a common precancerous skin condition, AK affects tens of millions of people annually. We are committed to empowering people to take proactive steps to reduce their risk for skin cancer and continue to build and expand resources to help those impacted by it feel supported during every day of their journey," said Frank Righetti, Vice President, Business Unit Head, Cutaneous Oncology, Sun Pharma.

Prevention Is Daily, Not Occasional

You've heard the sun safety basics before, but they bear repeating, especially when the stakes involve precancerous changes:

• Wear sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days

• Seek shade during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

• Cover up with protective clothing and UV-blocking sunglasses

• Choose a wide-brimmed hat whenever you're spending time outdoors

These aren't just summer habits. They're year-round commitments that reduce your risk of sun damage and support your long-term skin health.

The Bottom Line

AK is common, it's preventable, and when caught early, it's treatable. If you have patches on your skin that won't resolve, don't wait. Talk to a healthcare professional.

Your skin has a story to tell. Make sure you're listening.

---

Skin Cancer Champions is committed to education, awareness, and advocacy for the skin cancer community. Learn more at skincancerchampions.org.