From the May 2010 Senior Circle publication 
Skin cancer is on the rise. In fact, one in every five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, which means the longer you live, the more likely you’ll develop skin cancer, according to Subha Elango, MD, family practitioner with Lake Porter Medical Group.
Who’s at risk? “Approximately 97 percent of Caucasians by age 80 have, or have had, a skin cancer or its precursors,” said Michael Malczewski, MD, plastic surgeon with Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery of NW Indiana. “Your risk may be higher if you have a family history of skin cancer, if you have many moles (particularly irregular or large moles), or have fair skin that burns or freckles easily,” he said.
What to Look For
“Early detection is so important when it comes to skin cancer and fortunately most skin cancers are visible and can be treated,” said Elango. “Do a thorough check of all of your skin monthly and see your doctor immediately if you see skin growths or moles that are asymmetrical, irregularly shaped, show variations of color, or are greater than 6 mm in size (about the size of a single pea).”
Elango also suggests practicing “sun safety” which means avoiding sun exposure between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, and using a sunscreen with a SPF of 30+ everyday – even on cloudy or overcast ones.