Preventing skin cancer while enjoying the summer months

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — With the summer months upon us, that means more sunshine and time spent outside.

But while there is fun to be had outdoors, it is important to protect your skin from skin cancer.

According to the Minnesota Medical Association, skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer and it can be prevented through the use of sunscreen and other measures.

For example, not staying out in the sun for too long in between the 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. window.

“If you are out there on the fishing boat, wearing a hat is going to help you. If you are out farming and you are not going to be in an enclosed tractor. Wear a hat. That’s going to help you. When you are out and about, wearing sunscreen and reapplying frequently every couple of hours with a nice, thick layer. SPF 30 or more is what we recommend,” said Laurel Ries, President of the Minnesota Medical Association.

It is important to reapply sunscreen because sweating and swimming can reduce the effectiveness of it.