While cancer is a disease that we cannot completely foresee, there are some risk factors that weigh into a chance of a person developing skin cancer. Monitoring of the general patterns of the population's skin cancer development has contributed to a more accurate method of evaluating a person's risk. While some people with many risk factors would never develop the disease, it is a smart idea to know the risk that you have.

Skin cancer represents the most commonly occurring cancer in the United States, and the amount of skin cancer diagnoses increases each year. While the number of deaths caused by skin cancer is low, it is imperative to treat the disease early to avoid complications. Almost all of all skin cancer cases are curable if treated in an early stage.

The foremost reason that people get skin cancer is excessive exposure of ultra-violet rays to the skin. Presumably, excessive exposure to the sun's rays is the main factor that can cause the disease to develop. However, with the arrival of tanning beds and sun lamps, a new risk is formed by those who wish to have a tanned appearance. The greatest risk of skin cancer is faced by those who have a light complexion and often develop freckles. Typically, this is a risk factor for those with red or blonde hair. Skin cancer is most often diagnosed after age 50, but the damage that ultra-violet rays does to your body starts at an early age, so it is important to keep your tanning in moderation.

When you visit the beach, it is important that you wear sunscreen. Select a wide-spectrum sun screen with a high SPF value to ensure that your body is getting the protection that it needs. If you've been out for a long time and the sunscreen starts to wear off, it is important to reapply. Also, studies have shown that the sun's rays are most dangerous between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM, so avoid these times for exposure to the sun if at all possible. Another suggestion for those who are outside often is to wear clothes that provide protection from the sun. A tight weaving pattern, loose-fitting clothes, and dark colors are all factors of proper clothing to wear when trying to avoid UV damage.

In addition to the risks represented by exposure to the sun and complexion type, it is also important to learn whether skin cancer has occurred in members of your family. A full one in 10 patients that is diagnosed with skin cancer has a close relative who was diagnosed with the disease as well.

While following these risk-decreasing habits, it is also important to make sure that you regularly check your body for the chance of skin cancer. At least every three months, you should fully examine your body and observe any differences in your skin's appearance. The extended growth of moles, and bumps and breaks in your skin can be cause for alarm when it comes to this disease.