Summer is right around the corner and that means swimming pools and sprinklers for our children as they try to cool down in the stifling summer heat. The summer sun gives our children plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy themselves, but as parents, we must also take care to ensure that their moments in the sun remain fun and not dangerous because of overexposure to the sun.

It has been proven by the American Cancer Society that nearly 80 percent of skin cancers could be prevented by protecting skin from the sun's rays and that protecting the skin from the sun during childhood is very important in reducing the risk of skin cancer as an adult.

There are two common forms of skin cancer - Melanoma and Non-Melanoma. Melanoma affects the cells that produce the skin coloring or pigment known as melanin. Melanoma is much less common than non-melanoma skin cancers, but more serious. It is estimated that more than 7,700 people are expected to die from the disease this year.

More than 1.3 million Americans are to be diagnosed with skin cancers other than melanoma this year. The disease is common, and it is developed from skin cells other than those producing pigments.

Although the disease continues to grow as a threat, it is arguably the most preventable cancer. To protect our children from the threat of skin cancer keep the following tips in mind:

• Sun's rays are strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plan outdoor activities around this time of day, so they avoid the sun during these peak hours. Encourage children to play in the shade.
• Cover up your child with a hat and shirt. Hats should shade their faces, necks and ears. Choose shirts and slacks that are made of tightly woven fabrics. Dark colors provide more protection than light since they prevent more UV rays from reaching the skin.
• Apply sunscreen every day on skin that is not protected by clothing or a hat. Choose sunscreen with a 15 Sun Protection Factor (SPF) or higher. Zinc oxide can also be used as an effective sunscreen. Do not apply sunscreen to children under the age of 6 months.
• For best results, apply sunscreen about 20 minutes before going outside to allow it time to bond with your skin.
• Sunscreen removes easily. Reapply sunscreen after becoming wet or drying with a towel for best protection.
• Avoid tanning booths. Sunlamps or tanning booths are not a good idea. They are as harmful to skin as the sun. Sunlamps damage the skin and don't help or protect it.
• Some medications such as antibiotics, can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. Ask you doctor or pharmacist about any drugs being taken.

As a parent, you must set a good example for your children. Educate your children on the dangers of skin cancer. By following these important tips for weathering this summer's sun, you can ensure that this summer will be a fun and safe one for your children.

Asif Javed M.D. is a board certified doctor in Internal Medicine, who has practiced at the Jersey Shore Medical Associates in Avis, since 1999. Dr. Javed, who has an interest in dermatology, has practiced internal medicine in the United States for more than 6 years. Before that, he practiced medicine in the United Kingdom, where he trained in internal medicine and dermatology. He currently resides in Lock Haven with his wife and two children.