How can I prevent skin cancer?

The key is to avoid being in the sun or using sunlamps. If you're going to be in the sun for any length of time, wear clothes made from tight-woven cloth so the sun's rays can't get through to your skin, and stay in the shade when you can. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, neck and ears.

Remember that clouds and water won't protect you--60% to 80% of the sun's rays can get through clouds and can reach swimmers at least one foot below the surface of the water. The sun's rays can also reflect off of water, snow and white sand.

Tips on preventing skin cancer :

• Avoid the sun, especially from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., when the sun's rays are the strongest.
• Don't use tanning booths or sunlamps.
• Wear protective clothing and hats.
• Check your skin yourself every month for signs of skin cancer.
• If you see an area on your skin that looks unusual, ask your family doctor about it.