This time of year it's especially important to protect yourself from skin cancer.

On the 7th day of every month we bring you our Healthcheck 7 report.

It's part of our commitment to fighting the battle against cancer in Northcentral Wisconsin.

Wausau Dermatologist Randal Kumm says it affects about 1 point 5 million people in the US every year.

He's been a dermatologist for 19 years.

Dr. Kumm says sunlight contains harmful u-v rays that can cause skin cancer but wearing sunscreen can help protect your skin from absorbing too much.

"Figure that about an ounce about the size of a shot glass is needed to cover the whole body about and two teaspoons to cover the entire face and most people usually don't apply that much sunscreen."

Dr. Kumm also recommends reapplying your sunscreen if you are sweating or swimming-- to make sure you are still protected.

The doctor says there are precautions you can take if you plan to be outside.

"Standing in the shade as opposed to out in direct sunlight, try and avoid the peak hours of sunlight, 11 am to 3 pm that's the time we get the most sunlight and the most UV rays coming through the atmosphere. Using wide brim hats and long sleeves whenever possible."

The doctor also recommends wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to keep your skin from absorbing too much sunlight.