Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, will account for about 41,600 cases of skin cancer in 1998 and most of the deaths due to skin cancer. Most melanoma is related to sun exposure. The number of new melanomas diagnosed in the United States is increasing. Since 1973, the rate of new melanomas diagnosed per year has doubled from 6 new cases per 100,000 people to 12 per 100,000. Besides skin cancer, the sun's UV radiation also increases the risk of cataracts and certain other eye problems and can suppress the immune system.
Summer means more exposure to the sun.
Everyone is at risk for skin cancer, whatever their skin color, and everyone needs protection from the sun. Plan your sun strategy before you go out. You'll need a hat, protective clothing and plenty of sunscreen. Plan your activities to avoid the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are strongest. Sunlight can reflect off water, sand, concrete and snow and can reach below the water's surface.