serious matter -- it could be deadly if you develop skin cancer, the most common type of cancer. Skin protection is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

Did you know that your skin is the largest organ in your body? The top layer is called the epidermis.

According to Teresa Cameron, Director of Public Relations, Education and Fund Raising at the Bermuda TB, Cancer & Health Association: "When the skin's cells are disturbed by the sun's ultraviolet light, these cells can become cancerous. Cancerous cells are disorganised and produce a roughened surface or tumorous growths known as basal cell or squamous cell cancers.'' The epidermis also has pigment-producing cells called melanocytes which give our skin its colour. These cells can be altered by ultraviolet light to produce the most dangerous type of skin cancer, melanoma. In some cases, melanoma is genetic.

The bottom layer is called the dermis and provides physical and nutritional support for the skin. Long term ultraviolet exposure destroys its collagen and elastic tissues. This results in the thickening and wrinkling of aged skin.

The colour of your skin and your tendency to sunburn are related to your risk of developing skin cancer. The lighter your skin colour, the greater your risk of damage, including skin cancer caused by sun exposure.

The most common cause of skin cancer is repeated exposure to the sun. People who spend a lot of time outdoors working, gardening, swimming, golfing, sailing, fishing, playing tennis, are at risk. Risk affects children playing outdoors. Many of these activities are enjoyed year round in Bermuda.

Mrs. Cameron suggests: " The best time to put on your sun screen is after your morning shower or bath. Waterproof sun screen should be applied at least one half hour prior to sun exposure to be the most effective.'' "Although skin cancer in children is rare, the action you take to protect your skin, particularly as a child, can lower your risk of developing it.

Slip, slap, slop! "The damage done to skin by sunburns does not go away; it builds with each burn. I put it to kids this way, a penny the first year is not a lot, after ten years the pile of pennies have grown, and after 20 years the pennies have really grown.'' Scientists believe the thinning ozone layer is also a factor because more ultraviolet radiation from the sun is striking the earth. The ozone layer, a thin layer of gas surrounding the earth, serves as a sunscreen, blocking out most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays.

The Skin Cancer Awareness Programme suggest a few sun sense guidelines: Slip on clothing to cover your arms and legs.

Slap on a wide brimmed hat to shade your face, ears and neck.

Slop on sunscreen with SPF No. 15 or higher half hour prior to going out.

Also: Avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Remember that when your shadow is short, stay out of the sun. When your shadow is tall, go out and have fun.

The most prevalent skin cancer in Bermuda is basil cell. Another biggie is malignant melanoma, which when undetected can spread to other parts of the body.

Mrs. Cameron explained: "Early detection saves lives. We encourage the public to take responsibility of their own lives. Detection early on can considerably increase chances of controlling the disease with the many treatment options and the chances of survival are more favourable.

"With knowledge you replace ignorance with information.'' At the invitation of school principals, or headmasters/headmistresses, Mrs.

Cameron will happily attend schools to share valuable information regarding the sun and skin care with small classes. Each child will receive a bag of goodies such as a white hat, lip balm, sun screen, bookmart, etc.

Children are taught the "Slip, Slap, Slop'' song and learn that the sun is both friend and foe.

COVER UP if you are in the sun for a long time.

HEALTH HTH