This year, an estimated 10,850 people will die of skin cancer, the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. According to a report from the Unilever Global Skin Innovation Center in Trumbull, CT, “the real danger is not a few acute exposures, but from cumulative exposure received over a lifetime, particularly that acquired during childhood.” If you can identify with the latter and have a history of sun exposure, examining yourself on a monthly basis is a must. Following  the so-called ABCDE Rule, you should contact your dermatologist immediately if you notice:

• Asymmetry: One half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.
• Border: Irregular, ragged, notched or blurred edges.
• Color: Uneven color — either shades of brown or black, or patches of red, white or blue.
• Diameter: The area is larger than a pencil eraser or growing larger.
• Evolution: The mole’s symmetry, border, color or diameter has changed over time.

No matter what age or condition your skin is in, daily sun protection is your best defense. Slather your body with sunscreen before heading outdoors or driving in your car (where sun streaming through windows can be just as dangerous as rays caught at the beach).
The American Academy of Dermatologists recommends applying about 1 ounce (enough to fill a shot glass) of SPF 15 or higher every morning to your face, ears, neck, hands and arms — the most common areas for sun exposure — even if it’s a particularly cloudy day or you work indoors.

In addition to sunscreen, if you participate in outdoor activities like biking, running or swimming, you should try to wear clothing and accessories that limit your ultraviolet exposure. Whenever possible, avoid the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours while outside.

If you are still convinced that having a tan makes you look and feel healthier, there are alternatives to permanently damaging your skin. To reduce your risk of skin cancer and the appearance of unsightly wrinkles the sun can cause, use a bronzer or schedule a spray-tanning appointment at your salon.

Defend yourself against this deadly disease and brush up on your knowledge of UV protection in “Sun Savvy,” in VIVmag‘s May/June 2007 issue, for five surprising skin-cancer facts that will help you safeguard the skin you’re in.