When it comes to protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays, many people assume they’ve got it all figured out: Wear sunscreen, don’t go out during the time of day when the sun’s rays are at their strongest and seek shade wherever possible.

Whether you are 6 or 60, experts agree, there are certain things we all need to do to be sure we are as protected as possible, in addition to slathering on the SPF.

Why?

Two words: skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, with millions of new cases diagnosed each year.

A whopping 90 percent of those cases are the result of sun exposure. And while the disease affects millions each year, it is also the easiest cancer to cure — provided it is diagnosed and treated early.

How can you spot skin cancer early?

Self-examinations can make all the difference.

While a thorough, full-body skin exam by a physician is a must, the responsibility of skin cancer detection also falls on us.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that everyone practice a head-to-toe self-examination on a monthly basis. Be sure to look for any new or changing lesions during your monthly skin self-exam, and pay attention to any skin growths or spots that have changed color or texture, or have increased in size.

Look for any spot that has an irregular outline, and take note of any spot that itches, hurts or bleeds.

An open sore that hasn’t healed within three weeks is also of concern.

Melanoma is by far the deadliest form of skin cancer. There are certain specific characteristics you should look for during your skin self-exam.

Follow the melanoma skin cancer ABCDE rule to recognize moles and growths that could be cancerous.

Asymmetry (one half of a mole doesn’t match the other)

Border irregularity

Color that is not uniform

Diameter greater than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)

Evolving size, shape or color

If you find anything unusual or suspicious during your monthly skin self-exam, don’t delay: Schedule an appointment with your physician or health care provider immediately.

For more information, contact the Cancer Center of Thibodaux at 985-493-4008.

Laura Gros is the Thibodaux Regional Cancer Center patient care coordinator. She can be reached at 985-493-4008.