Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers and has been on the rise over the past few years. There are more than five million cases diagnosed each year in the United States. K-State Extension Northwest Regional Specialist for Family and Consumer Sciences Ashley Svaty says sunscreen is an important tool for protection against the sun.

An ounce of sunscreen, enough to fill the palm of a hand, is considered the amount needed to cover the exposed areas of the body. Svaty says it needs to be applied to more than just the arms and face.

Svaty says it’s important to start protecting our skin at an early age. Anyone can get skin cancer, but some have increased chances. Those who have natural blond or red hair, freckles, are fair skinned, spend a lot of time outdoors, have had a lot of sunburns or have a family history of skin cancer, especially melanoma, are encouraged to be extra careful.