Healthy Skin and Cancer Risks

Before you bare your skin to summer afternoon skies, beware: The risk of skin cancer may be higher than you think. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and it's estimated that 50% of all people who live to age 65 will have at least one bout with skin cancer. This summer, watch your skin and protect it with sunscreen—and know the following about skin cancer risks:

1. Who is most at risk? People who tend to sunburn or freckle easily, have red or blonde hair, fair skin, blue or light-colored eyes or who spend a great deal of time in the sun.

2. Why is skin self-examination important? Recognition of changes in skin growths or new growths is the best way to detect skin cancer in its earliest stages. If brought to a doctor's attention early enough, skin cancer cure rates could be almost 100%.

3. When should it be done? Skin exams should be performed monthly, preferably after a bath or shower.

4. Warning signs: Any skin abnormality, including a change in size, shape or color of a birthmark, mole or blemish; a new or unusual growth; or a sore that won't heal. Warning signs do not necessarily indicate cancer. However, if you experience any of these signs, contact your physician.