With springtime here, we know for sure that the snow will melt, flowers will bloom and the sun will cause more skin cancer. As we approach summer, the sun appears more directly overhead, leading to higher doses of ultraviolet light with a resultant increase in intensity of exposure and sunburns.

In fact, ultraviolet light, from the sun or artificial light, is one of 228 substances on the government's list of known cancer-causing agents. More than 1 million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed this year, and one person will die from melanoma every hour. Fortunately, we can improve these statistics with protection from the sun and early detection of skin cancer.

No simple answer exists regarding what to look for in practicing early detection. Most melanomas start as a black spot on the skin and slowly enlarge over many months until the skin barrier is broken and the cancer spreads into the body. However, some melanomas can be pink spots or develop from a pre-existing mole. Larger moles are more likely to develop melanomas and should be watched more carefully for changes.

Melanoma is as common in young adults as in older persons. Early detection and removal of a melanoma is the only cure for this skin cancer. Blistering sunburns and hereditary factors are involved in the formation of a melanoma. Chronic sun exposure leads to sun-induced skin cancers (basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma). These cancers are more common in older people, although 80 percent of chronic sun damage occurs before the age of 18.

James A. Torok, MD, is a board certified dermatologist in private practice since 1984. His office is located in Suite 205, Vista Medical Terrace, 2345 E. Prater Way (just up the hill from the hospital), Sparks. For more information, please call 331-2882.

Sun-induced skin cancers may develop from precancerous scaly patches with a texture of sandpaper. These are most common in more sunexposed areas such as the face, ears or arms. Most sun-induced skin cancers are pink patches that bleed easily, or pink or flesh-colored bumps that enlarge over weeks or months. Although death can occur from sun-induced skin cancer, most cases can be cured by early surgical removal. Any new or changing skin lesion is suspect until examined and diagnosed by a professional.

Many people ask what sunscreen to use and wonder why they sunburn while using a sunscreen. Basically, whatever sunscreen lotion keeps you from sunburning is adequate. Generally, a sunscreen lotion with an SPF of at least 15 is recommended.

The key to proper sunscreen use is not the brand, but appropriate use of the lotion. Sunscreen lotions must be applied at least 20 minutes before sun exposure to allow a minor chemical reaction to take place with the surface of the skin. This reaction is necessary for skin protection to occur. Sunscreen lotions should be used any time you anticipate more than 20 minutes of sun exposure per day. At least one ounce of lotion (two full tablespoons) is required to cover exposed skin.

All sunscreen lotions will wash off, so it's necessary to reapply the lotion every two hours if swimming. Similarly, sweating and wind exposure will remove sunscreen lotion, and frequent reapplication is necessary. Wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and clothing also is helpful. In fact, clothing treated with sunscreen is available and is helpful for sunsensitive people. Avoiding sun between 10 AM and 4 PM also is wise, as this is the time when sun rays are most intense. Seeking shade is always helpful to partially reduce exposure. Most importantly, protect your children. They are spending the most time in the sun and are most vulnerable to sun damage.

Northern Nevada Medical Center 2375 E. Prater Way, Sparks, NV 89434 775-331-7000