JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – While melanoma affects mostly adults ages 60 and up, Dr. Tommy Erickson with Sanford Health says there are steps you can take to prevent the dangerous skin cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, about 106,110 new melanomas will be diagnosed this year. Cancer of the skin is by far the most common of all cancers. Melanoma accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers but causes a large majority of skin cancer deaths.

The risk of melanoma increases as people age. The average age of people when it is diagnosed is 65. But melanoma is not uncommon even among those younger than 30. In fact, it’s one of the most common cancers in young adults (especially young women).

Dr. Erickson says when examining yourself for possible melanoma, you can remember the ABCDE’s of melanoma:

A: Asymmetry – One half of the spot is unlike the other half.
B: Border – The spot has an irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.
C: Color – The spot has varying colors from one area to the next, such as shades of tan, brown or black, or areas of white, red, or blue.
D: Diameter – While melanomas are usually greater than 6 millimeters, or about the size of a pencil eraser, when diagnosed, they can be smaller.
E: Evolving – The spot looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.

Dr. Erickson says the main key is reducing any risks of prolonged sun exposure.

He added that those who are concerned with vitamin D, they’re encouraged to take supplements or spend minimal time outside without proper protection.

You can listen to a full Let’s Talk About It with Dr. Tommy Erickson below: