The summer is in full swing. And with summer fun comes outside activity. It's a must that you proceed with caution before attending your next pool party or backyard barbeque. As July is UV (ultraviolet) Safety Month, it's important to remember to protect your skin from the sun and UV rays from tanning beds and booths to avoid skin cancer. The seldom recognized form of cancer is a growth on the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. While there are many myths, it can affect any skin tone--including dark skin.

There are three different types of skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. Frequently forming on the head, neck and hands, BCC often appear as flat, firm, pale areas or as small, raised, pink or red translucent, shiny, or waxy paths. It can take many months or years for one to grow to a half of an inch. If left untreated, this type of cancer can extend below the skin to the bone and nerves.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common skin cancer. It usually appears on the rim of the ears, lips, and face. The appearance of SCC is often a bump or a red, scaly patch. This cancer, if left untreated, can spread throughout the body.

Malignant melanoma is the most deadly of all skin cancers. Melanoma starts in melanocytes; these are the skin cells that produce melanin, which is responsible for producing the color of the skin. Melanoma starts as a mole or in darker parts of the skin. This cancer can appear tan, black, or brown on the skin.

When detected early, skin cancer can be treated. Some of the surgical treatments include surgical excision, electrodessication and curettage, scraping or burning the tumor with low levels of electricity, cryosurgery, freezing using liquid nitrogen and laser surgery.

The best way to lower the risk of skin cancer is to avoid being outdoors in intense sunlight and practice sun safety. If you have to be outside for a long amount of time, apply sunscreen to the skin with a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15. Make sure you always get annual check ups and identify anything changing, bleeding or growing on your skin. Do this and your skin will thank you. -adrienne gadling

For more information, please visit www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/chooseyourcover/qanda.htm.

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