Prevention:

Reduce your sun exposure. Protect your skin from the sun by wearing hats, long-sleeved shirts, long skirts, or pants.

Sunlight is most intense at midday, so try to limit exposure during these hours. Use high-quality sunscreens, preferably with SPF (sun protection factor) ratings of at least 30. Apply the sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapply frequently. Use a sunscreen throughout the year, even during the winter.

Examine the skin regularly for any new suspicious growths or changes in an existing skin lesion. A new growth that forms an ulcer or is slow to heal is suspicious.

Suspicious changes in an existing growth include:

• A change in color, size, texture, or appearance
• Development of pain, inflammation, bleeding, or itching