June 15, 2011

With the temperature rising outside, many people are spending more time in the sun and increasing their risk for skin cancer. For this week's segment of Martha Jefferson Health wise, CBS19's Stephanie Satchel examines skin cancer and explains what you can do to protect yourself.

Whether you are laying out at the beach or even just strolling around the neighborhood, if you are in the sun, you could be putting yourself at risk for skin cancer.

Martha Jefferson Hospital's dermatologist Anna Ma gee has several patients and understands how the sun's rays can damage your skin if left unprotected.

"Skin cancer is related to sun exposure, so the more sun exposure people get the more at risk they are for skin cancer," said Ma gee. From signs of aging, to different types of skin cancer, the sun can take a toll on your body.

The most uncommon, and most dangerous skin cancer is Melanoma.

"That's the one that looks like a mole and that's the one that you really want to try and catch early. If its not treated adequately and quickly it can spread and be difficult to treat," said Ma gee. She she adds that it is easy to protect yourself. Simply wear sunscreen or a protective hat.

"It's something you can get full protection. You're not worried whether the sunscreen has rubbed off it doesn't wear over time," said Ma gee.

Staying safe does not mean you need to avoid the sun altogether, it just means you need to stay cautious.