Nicole Catanes – Come summer, the sun plays a starring role — blazing at the beach, lengthening our afternoons, luring us to exercise outside. But the truth is, that big, yellow ball is present 365 days a year, so we’re almost always in its spotlight. Stepping outside unprotected for a few measly minutes might seem harmless, but the damage adds up: UV rays are linked to 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers and 65 percent of melanomas, the deadliest form of skin cancer. In fact, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with 1 million cases diagnosed annually. And melanoma is the second most common cancer among women age 25 to 29.

In spite of the scary statistics, we’re not suggesting you live in a cave. Our job is to arm you with the facts and encourage you to stay safe. Research shows that reminders do make a difference; 56 percent of people who received a text message to wear sun protection slathered it on, a study by Harvard University Medical School in Boston shows. And protecting yourself truly pays off. Skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, according to the American Cancer Society in Atlanta; wear sunscreen with SPF 30 and you’ll be protected from up to 97 percent of UVB rays. It’s also one of the most curable: Detecting melanoma in its early stage gives you a 99 percent chance of beating the disease. Just ask these survivors; their stories will inspire you to safeguard your skin.