Increased sun exposure now can mean an increased risk of skin cancer later in life, health officials warn. According to the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Occurrence of the most-dangerous skin cancer, melanoma, has doubled in the last 20 years, and it is estimated that one in 75 Americans will get melanoma at some time. Other skin cancers, like basal cell and squamous cell cancers, are more common. They are treatable but can cause severe damage if unrecognized.
Children especially are at risk.
The good news is that skin cancers can be prevented. It's important for parents to make sunscreen a habit like washing hands and wearing your seatbelt. With increased education and attitude toward sun exposure, outdoor lovers and children can reduce their chance of skin cancer. Use a sunscreen with an SPF factor of at least 15. Make sure that your sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.