Protect yourself from the sun

Summer sun brings more to worry about than a burn. Melanoma, a very common and deadly form of skin cancer, is most often caused by spending too much time in the sun without protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. People with fair skin and lighter hair are at greatest risk but anyone, regardless of skin color, is at risk from excessive sun exposure.

Cases of melanoma have been rising at an alarming rate, faster than any other form of cancer, and will affect one person in 50 by 2010 -- that compares to one in 1,500 people just 70 years ago.

Helping kids protect themselves and learn good skin care habits is especially important. Sunburn at any age can cause melanoma, but 80 percent of sun damage occurs before the age of 18.

"Parents play a key role in stemming the tide of melanoma," said Dr. Moira Ariano, M.D., a Wheaton dermatologist and supporter of the Glen Ellyn-based Jack H. Marston II Melanoma Fund, which raises funds and awareness to fight melanoma. "Kids need to learn good habits early and parents can set a good example."

Jack's Fund offers these sun protection tips to help reduce the risks of skin cancer:

* Don't burn. Always use sunscreen, even on cloudy days. This applies to all outdoor activities: sports, shopping, picnicking, walking or jogging, gardening, even waiting for a bus.

* Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher, and with ingredients that block both UVB and UVA rays. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply every two hours.

* Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

* Be sure to apply sunscreen all over, including your ears, lips, neck, hands and feet.

* Stay out of the sun when it's strongest, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

* Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths. The UV radiation emitted by indoor tanning lamps is many times more intense than natural sunlight. Dangers include burns, premature aging of the skin, and the increased risk of skin cancer.

* Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months. Zinc sunscreen is especially good for small children.

* Examine your skin head-to-toe every month and see a dermatologist for a skin and mole check. Early detection is the key to beating melanoma.