As the weather starts to warm up, and the sun begins to shine bright again, one group is warning about the dangers of sunburns.

The American Cancer Association says, “skin cancer has become an epidemic in the U.S. with more than one million new skin cancers diagnosed every year.”  Part of that growing number is due to over-exposure to UV radiation that comes from the sun. 
The organization says the most common form of sun-related skin cancer is melanoma.  However, they say, melanomas can be treated. Here’s some signs of the disease:

Asymmetry – one half of the mole does not match the other half
Border – the edges are ragged, notched or blurred
Color – the pigmentation is not uniform, with variable degrees of tan, brown or black
Diameter – the mole is greater than 6 mm or about the size of a pencil eraser

They’re reminding people to prevent the onset of cancer and other sun-related medical issues by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing while enjoying the summer sunshine.
For more information or to learn how to do a self skin exam, contact the American Cancer Society at 800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.