Protect children by keeping them out of the sun or minimizing sun exposure and applying sunscreens beginning at six months of age. Teach children and teenagers sun protection, since sun exposure damage accumulates over the course of a lifetime. One severe childhood or adolescent sunburn doubles the risk of developing skin cancer. Examine your and your children s skin regularly for any changes in moles, freckles, or skin discoloration. The best way to beat melanoma is to detect it early.
Early detection is critical, since melanoma can spread to other parts of the body quickly.
Examine the front and back of your body in the mirror, then your right and left sides with arms raised. Bend your elbows and look carefully at your forearms, upper arms, underarms, and palms. Check your back and buttocks with a hand mirror. What you are checking for are unusual-looking moles or other pigmented spots, especially changes in them, or the appearance of new growths. You should learn to recognize changes in skin growths or the appearance of new growths.