In the midst of summer when outdoor activities are at a height, it is a time to remember that skin cancer is a serious threat, one that should not be minimized.

Linda Schoening of Pascagoula recently told her story about a battle with skin cancer. She's not alone in battling this form of cancer. The National Cancer Institute estimates more than one million new cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer occur each year and the rate is rising.

According to the institute, "The most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma followed by squamous cell carcinoma. These forms are often referred to as nonmelanoma skin cancer to differentiate them from a third type, melanoma, which is less common, more deadly, and more likely to spread throughout the body."

Most skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or sources such as sunlamps or tanning booths. Fair-skinned people face the highest risk. But anyone exposed to UV radiation should take precautions.

Skin cancer appears in different forms from small, smooth, shiny, pale or waxy lump or a firm red lump, according to the Institute. The cancer can appear as a rough, scaly patch on the skin.

Like smoking, one sure way to reduce risk is avoidance. Here are some recommendations by the cancer institute:

Avoid the midday sun and artificial UV sources such as tanning beds.

Wear protective clothes such as hats. Some clothing offers UV protection.

Apply sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection.

It is difficult to imagine avoiding the sun along the Gulf Coast, however it makes sense to follow guidelines to minimize your risk.