Skin cancer is much more common than people think it is. It is a disease where cancer cells form in the tissue of the skin. The National Cancer Institute explains that there are different types of skin cancer. While it is treatable, any cancer diagnosis comes with the understanding that your chances of survival are declining. A big reason why it is so treatable is because of early diagnosis. This particular symptom of skin cancer becomes much more apparent with just 15 minutes in the sun. As many enjoy the recent sunny weather, it's crucial to be aware of the risks of sun exposure. Cancer UK is urging everyone to monitor their skin for signs of skin cancer, which can develop after as little as 15 minutes in the sun. Even with sunscreen, you can still get burned if the SPF isn't high enough or if it's not reapplied regularly. Link Between Sunburn and Cancer Risk Getting a sunburn is a clear indication of skin damage caused by too much UV radiation, which harms the DNA in your skin cells. While one sunburn doesn't guarantee skin cancer, the more often you get burned, the higher your risk. To protect yourself, remember to: Seek shade Stay in the shade, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM, when the sun's rays are strongest. This greatly lowers your exposure to harmful UV radiation, making it safer to be outside during these peak hours. Cover up with loose clothing Wear loose clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses. These items create a barrier, shielding your skin and eyes from direct sunlight and reducing your overall sun exposure. Apply sunscreen Use sunscreen with at least SPF30 and 4 or 5 stars, and put on plenty of it, often. Regular and correct sunscreen use creates a protective layer, significantly lowering your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage from UV rays. Spotting the Early Warning Signs Non-melanoma skin cancer often shows up on skin exposed to the sun. To catch it early, it helps to know how your skin normally looks so you can spot any changes. Regular self-checks are key for early detection. Here's how to check your skin: Use a handheld mirror for hard-to-see areas, or ask a friend or partner for help. This ensures you don't miss any suspicious spots on your back or other less visible parts of your body. Take photos of anything that seems unusual. Include a ruler or tape measure in the photo to track its size and changes. These pictures are important for your doctor to assess any evolving skin concerns. They might look like:A new spot or sore that doesn't heal within a few weeks. Persistent, non-healing lesions are a significant warning sign that warrant immediate medical attention to rule out cancerous growth. A new lump that is firm, growing, or has an unusual color. Any new, unexplained lump on your skin should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially if it changes in appearance. A red or dark patch that might be scaly or crusty. Discolored patches, particularly those with rough textures or irregular borders, can be indicators of skin cancer and require medical assessment. Something that is itchy, crusty, or bleeding without obvious injury. These symptoms, especially when persistent, suggest that a skin lesion might be abnormal and necessitate a doctor's examination for proper diagnosis.