By GARRETT RUSSELL

UPMC Wound Care, General Surgery

Each year, May is recognized as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a timely reminder to protect our skin and take sun safety seriously.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with millions of cases diagnosed annually. The most dangerous type, melanoma, accounts for the majority of skin cancer- related deaths. But the good news is that most cases are preventable and highly treatable when caught early.

Skin cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in the outer layers of the skin, often due to damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. People who have spent long hours in the sun and tanning beds are at a higher risk for developing skin cancer, including those with the following characteristics:

■ Have fair skin, light hair and light eyes

■ Sunburn easily or have a history of sunburns

■ Have a family or personal history of skin cancer WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF Sun protection is one of the simplest ways to reduce your risk. That means wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy or cooler days. Seeking shade during the peak sun hours (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.) and wearing protective clothing, like long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses, can all help prevent skin damage.

Avoiding tanning beds is also important.

Though they may seem like a harmless way to get some color, they expose your skin to intense UV rays that can significantly increase your risk of both melanoma and other types of skin cancer.

KNOW THE SIGNS Early detection saves lives, so don’t forget the ABCDEs of monthly skin self-exams:

■ Asymmetry – one half doesn’t match the other

■ Border – edges are

irregular or blurred

■ Color – multiple or uneven colors

■ Diameter – larger than a pencil eraser

■ Evolving – any changes in size, shape or color If you notice anything new or suspicious, make an appointment with your doctor soon. Additionally, schedule an annual skin exam with a dermatologist, especially for those with a higher risk.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it deserves your attention and protection. Take steps to shield yourself from harmful UV rays, know your risk factors, examine your skin regularly and talk to a provider about any concerns. Prevention today can make a big difference for your future.

(Garrett Russell, certified physician assistant, is with UPMC Wound Center and UPMC General Surgery.

For more information, visit UPMC.com/Cole.)