Melanoma No. 2 cancer in young women

HOUSTON, July 8 (UPI) -- Melanoma is now the second-most common cancer in U.S. women ages 20 - 29, a dermatologist says.

Dr. Adelaide Hebert of the University of Texas Medical School at Houston also states the American Academy of Dermatology Association considers ultraviolet radiation the single largest environmental contributor to skin cancer and the rates of skin cancer are increasing significantly. More than 1 million new cases are diagnosed each year.

Hebert points out limiting sun exposure reduces not only skin cancer risks but painful sunburns and heat rash.

"Minimize your exposure in the sun during the hottest hours of the day, which are usually between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.," the dermatologist said in a statement.

The doctor's recommendations for those who are going to be in the sun include:

-- Wearing sun screen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapplying every two hours if sweating or if exposed to water, wind, or high altitudes.

-- Wearing protective tightly woven clothing and hats and to protect eyes, wraparound sunglasses.

-- Not forgetting to protect lips, ears and the tops of feet.