ESCANABA — May is skin cancer awareness month. There are simple ways to protect yourself from skin cancer, an abnormal growth of skin cells most often found on parts of the body exposed to the sun.

Certain things that are associated with skin cancer include, but are not limited to, continuous sun exposure and sunburn, persistent skin irritation or inflammation, exposure to certain chemicals, as well as chronic suppression of the immune system, according to Dr. Brian Burnette, Green Bay Oncology physician who serves patients at the OSF HealthCare St. Francis Hospital and Medical Group Oncology practice.

“As with many cancers, oftentimes we don’t know exactly what the cause of a person’s cancer is,” said Burnette. “There are things, however, that are associated with an increased risk of skin cancers.”

Sunburns are caused by an over exposure of ultraviolet (UV) rays to the skin. Taking preventative actions before sun exposure is the best way to not get burnt by the sun. Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Mitigate exposure by wearing clothing with a SPF of 50 or higher, sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that offers protection from UVB and UVA rays, has a SPF of 30 or higher, and is water resistant. It should be applied at least 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapplied every two hours, after swimming, or after excessive sweating.

“Limiting sun exposure and sunscreen can lower risk,” said Burnette. “Additionally, if a new mole or skin lesion develops, early evaluation by a primary care provider or dermatologist is of high impact. Early diagnosis and management by dermatology, surgery, or primary care should decrease the likelihood of ever having to see a cancer doctor like me for more advanced disease. After all, no one really wants to meet a cancer doctor.”

The three major types of skin cancer are called, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma can be found on sun exposed areas and may look like a pearly or waxy bump; a flat, flesh colored or brown lesion; or a bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns. Squamous cell carcinoma also occurs on sun-exposed areas of the body and can appear as a firm, red nodule, or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface. Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body. It can present as a large brownish spot with darker speckles; a mole that changes in color, size or texture or that bleeds; a small lesion with an irregular border and colors; a painful lesion that itches or burns; or dark lesions on palms, soles, fingertips or toes, or on mucous membranes, such as those lining the nose and mouth.

“Signs of skin cancer include irregular, persistent, growing, and discolored skin lesions,” noted Burnette.

If you find yourself with a sunburn, Burnette suggests learning from the experience, recover, and wear sunscreen and reduce exposures in the future.

“A single sunburn is unlikely to cause cancer, it’s more repeated and prolonged exposures,” he said.