The Signs of Skin Cancer
Melanoma often develops in an existing mole of any size. If you notice an asymmetrical mole, a mole with an irregular border, a mole that has changed color, or a mole that has a diameter greater than five millimeters (the size of a pencil eraser), see your doctor. Not all mole changes signal melanoma, but it's important to have any changes checked out early.

• Bleeding, pain or ulcerations are usually a sign that a mole may have become a melanoma.

It's also important to know that the risk of melanoma increases with age. Make sure your health professional does a thorough skin exam at least once per year. That includes a look at the top of your ears and your scalp. If you are very fair, a twice-yearly exam may be in order. Your doctor will help you with that decision.

Sun Safety Tips
To decrease your risk of developing skin cancer, here are some all-around, good-sense recommendations:

• Ask your pharmacist or physician if any medications or supplements you're taking will increase your sun sensitivity. Certain antibiotics (i.e., cipro, floxin) and medications containing the sulfa group (i.e., bactrim) can do just that. And some blood-pressure medications like beta blockers and diuretics, especially thiazides (i.e., HCTZ), can make you more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Even an herbal preparation like St. John's Wort can greatly increase your risk for getting a nasty sunburn.

• I know it can be difficult, but try and avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Use a sunscreen that has an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15 and protects against UV-A and UV-B light. Don't forget to apply sunscreen at least a half hour before going out in the sun. Most sunscreens evaporate or rub off fairly quickly, so reapply them according to the directions on the bottle. Generally, you need at least an ounce to cover your body effectively.