Everyone is at risk for skin cancer. Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells, which most often develops on skin exposed to the sun. Unfortunately, skin cancer can also occur on areas of your skin not normally exposed to the sun. There are many different types of skin cancer, but the three major types are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer.

Skin cancer can appear as a mole, lump, sore or a growth on the skin. How can you tell if an innocent-looking mole or lump may be skin cancer? The ABCD system may help you detect abnormalities that need to be examined by a physician.

· A is for asymmetry: Part of the lesion or growth looks different than the other part.
· B is for borders: The lesion or growth has irregular borders/edges.
· C is for color: The color in the lesion or growth changes from one area to another, which can include tan, brown and/or black. It can even include white, red or blue.
· D is for diameter: The lesion or growth may be larger than 6 mm (size of a pencil eraser), but not always.

In addition, any skin growth that bleeds or will not heal needs to be examined by a physician immediately.

It is important to know your risk factors, which include:

· Complexion: Skin cancer is more common in people with fair skin, light-colored hair, and light eyes including blue, grey or green.
· Genetics: A family history of skin cancer increases the risk of developing this type of cancer.
· Age: Nonmelanoma skin cancer is more common after age 40.
· Sun exposure and/or sunburn: Most skin cancers occur on areas of the skin that are exposed to sunlight or other ultraviolet radiation such as tanning beds. This is usually the primary cause of all skin cancers.

Keep in mind that anyone can develop skin cancer. Even people with dark skin, hair, and eyes.

It is important to minimize sun exposure by wearing sunscreen everyday with a SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher on all exposed skin, avoiding sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when it is the most intense, and wearing protective clothing like hats, shirts with long sleeves, long pants and skirts.

Remember, sunscreen should be applied year round, even during the winter, and have your skin checked by a physician on a regular basis to avoid bigger problems in the future. Your skin is the largest organ of your body and its main purpose is to protect your body and internal organs. It is your job to protect your skin to keep it safe, strong and healthy so it can protect your body the way it’s meant to.