Medically Reviewed by Brendan Griesmer, MD

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. More than 100,000 new melanomas (a type of skin cancer) will be diagnosed in 2024, and approximately 8,200 people are expected to die from this disease. Some people are at higher risk of skin cancer than others, but anyone can get it.

“Melanoma develops when melanocytes (the cells that give the skin its tan or brown color) start to grow out of control,” explains Dr. Brendan Griesmer at McLeod Primary Care Myrtle Beach. “Melanoma is less common than some other types of skin cancers; however, it is more dangerous because it’s much more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not found and treated early.”

There are many factors that naturally increase a person’s risk for skin cancer. People with lighter colored skin, hair and eye color are more prone to skin cancer, as well as those who have a family history of melanoma. The risk of melanoma increases as people age, but melanoma can also develop in younger people. In fact, melanoma is one of the most common cancers in people younger than 30 (especially younger women). People who have moles are also more likely to develop skin cancer.

Skin cancer is largely preventable. Since most skin cancers are linked to sun exposure, it’s important to take precautions when spending time outdoors, no matter what time of year. Follow these prevention tips for reducing your risk of developing skin cancer, not only in summertime, but year-round.

• Do not tan. Tanning outside or indoors can have dangerous consequences. Whether you’re exposed to the sun’s UV rays or visit an indoor tanning salon, every time you tan, your skin is damaged. As this damage builds, you speed up the aging of your skin and increase your risk for all types of skin cancer, including melanoma.
• If you’re outside, protect your skin from UV rays by staying out of the sun between 10 am and 4 pm. The sun’s rays are the strongest from mid-morning to late afternoon.
• Dress properly if you’re out in the sun. Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs, and wear a hat with a wide brim to shade your face, head, ears, and neck.
• Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum sunscreen provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
• An annual skin check by a board-certified dermatologist should be on your list of regular preventive health screenings.

To learn more about protecting yourself and your family from skin cancer, speak with a primary care provider near you.