Summer provides many opportunities to bask in the sunshine. The extended daylight hours and intense heat naturally increases your exposure to sunlight, and that can be dangerous.

Here are some facts about melanoma provided by the American Academy of Dermatology.

What is melanoma? Cancer of the skin and in its malignant form can be life threatening. This cancer begins in melanocytes, the skin cells that produce the dark protective pigment called melanin.

When you're exposed to sunlight, the melanin in your skin increases to form a protective layer in the form of a suntan.

Melanoma consists of melanocytes which have been transformed into cancer cells that grow uncontrollably. It has a high possibility of spreading to other parts of the body, including vital internal organs and grows, making it difficult to treat and potentially lethal.

What causes it? The most known risk factor is excessive exposure to the sun. How much sun is "excessive" varies from person to person. But no one is immune regardless of skin pigmentation. Melanoma is also linked to moles and birthmarks.

Who is most at risk? People who have many moles and those with relatives who are diagnosed with melanoma.

Aside from these factors, melanoma most often occurs among people who work or spend a great deal of time in the sun sunbathing, gardening, sailing, fishing or hiking especially if they were severely sunburned in their youth.

Precautions to take are to get familiar with your skin and your own pattern of moles, freckles and "beauty marks."

Be alert to the changes in the number or size, shape or color of pigmented areas. Frequent skin exams will help you recognize changes. Check with your physician or clinic if you find something.

To prevent melanoma, keep exposure to the sun at a minimum. Avoid exposure between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and use at least a 15 SPF-rated sunscreen or protective clothing.

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