Phoenix Sun, Cancer Risk: No Sidewalks, No Escape?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

April 15, 2026

The sun beats down relentlessly. It’s a fact of life in Phoenix, Arizona, but it’s more than just an inconvenience; it’s a serious health hazard. The intense UV radiation, coupled with a surprising lack of adequate shade in many areas, creates a perfect storm for elevated skin cancer risk. We need to talk about this, and more importantly, we need to act.

Phoenix residents face a significantly higher risk of developing skin cancer compared to those living in cooler, cloudier climates. The sheer intensity of the sun, especially during the long summer months, overwhelms typical sun protection measures. Many people underestimate the cumulative effect of daily sun exposure, even during short errands or commutes.

Consider the stark reality of Maryvale, a large, predominantly Hispanic neighborhood in West Phoenix. Wide streets, minimal tree cover, and a high concentration of bus stops with no shade structures expose residents to extreme UV radiation daily. This isn’t just about discomfort; it’s about a tangible increase in the likelihood of developing melanoma and other skin cancers.

So, what can we do? It starts with understanding the unique challenges of sun protection in a desert environment.

Sunscreen is crucial, but its effectiveness hinges on proper application and reapplication. Most people don’t use nearly enough. A shot glass full is the recommended amount for the entire body, applied at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapplication is key, every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Forget SPF 30 being “good enough.” In Phoenix, aim for SPF 50 or higher, and choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for water-resistant formulas, but remember that “water-resistant” doesn’t mean waterproof. You still need to reapply.

Beyond sunscreen, consider clothing. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants offer excellent protection. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. A wide-brimmed hat is essential for shielding your face, ears, and neck. Don’t forget sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes.

But individual actions are not enough. We need systemic change. The lack of shade in many Phoenix neighborhoods is a design flaw that needs to be addressed.

Think about walking along Central Avenue downtown on a summer afternoon. The heat radiating off the pavement is intense, and shade is often scarce. This discourages walking and cycling, forcing people into cars and contributing to air pollution.

Advocating for improved sun-safe infrastructure is crucial. This means lobbying local officials for more trees, covered walkways, and shade structures at bus stops and parks.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to advocating for change in your community:

1. Identify Problem Areas: Take a walk around your neighborhood and document areas with inadequate shade. Take photos and note the specific issues (e.g., lack of trees at bus stops, uncovered playgrounds).
2. Gather Data: Research the skin cancer rates in your zip code. The Arizona Department of Health Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are good resources. This data will strengthen your argument.
3. Connect with Neighbors: Talk to your neighbors about their concerns regarding sun exposure. Organize a neighborhood meeting to discuss potential solutions.
4. Contact Your Local Representatives: Reach out to your city council member, county supervisor, or state legislator. Schedule a meeting to discuss your concerns and present your data.
5. Write Letters to the Editor: Submit letters to local newspapers and online news outlets to raise awareness about the issue.
6. Partner with Local Organizations: Collaborate with environmental groups, health advocacy organizations, and community associations to amplify your voice.
7. Attend City Council Meetings: Attend city council meetings and speak during the public comment period to advocate for your cause.
8. Propose Specific Solutions: Don’t just complain about the problem; offer concrete solutions. Suggest specific locations for new trees, shade structures, or covered walkways.
9. Follow Up: Don’t give up! Stay persistent and continue to advocate for change until you see results.

Consider the success story of Tempe, Arizona. In recent years, Tempe has invested heavily in urban forestry, planting thousands of trees throughout the city. This has not only provided much-needed shade but has also helped to reduce the urban heat island effect.

We can learn from Tempe’s example. Phoenix can and should prioritize shade as a public health issue. This requires a shift in mindset, from viewing shade as an aesthetic amenity to recognizing it as an essential component of a healthy and livable city.

One common pitfall is thinking that shade from buildings is sufficient. While buildings do provide some shade, it’s often intermittent and unreliable. Trees provide more consistent and widespread shade, and they also offer other benefits, such as improved air quality and reduced energy consumption.

Another challenge is the cost of planting and maintaining trees. However, the long-term benefits of trees far outweigh the costs. Trees can increase property values, reduce stormwater runoff, and improve the overall quality of life in a community.

We also need to address the issue of accessibility. Shade should be available to everyone, regardless of their income or where they live. This means prioritizing shade in low-income neighborhoods and ensuring that public transportation stops are adequately shaded.

The fight against skin cancer in Phoenix is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires a multi-pronged approach that includes individual responsibility, community action, and government leadership. By working together, we can create a more sun-safe and healthy environment for all Phoenix residents. Let’s demand better. Let’s demand shade. Let’s demand a healthier future.