Sun protection (or...how to -- hopefully -- avoid dying of a horrible disease)

Just got news that a climbing friend died yesterday from melanoma after several years of surgeries, infections, pain, and suffering. His cancer originally showed up inside his nose. The original surgery seemed to be a success, but the cancer returned a year later, and it was necessary to totally remove his nose about 2 years ago. Things just got worse after that.

Please, folks, use sun protection when you're out there! Those of us who live & play at higher elevations are exposed to even more damaging radiation. Cloudy skies still let radiation through, so don't skip the sunscreen just because it's not a sunny day.

And be extra, extra diligent in protecting your kids.

Sorry to hear about your friend.
Thanx for the reminder. Yes it is very important to wear sunscreen every day, and go and see a dermatologist once a year for a full skin screening!!!!

Sorry for your loss, sunscreen is definitely one of my best friends after my first trip up to Camp Muir.

That is unfortunate news, although the positive side is that it sounds like he fought hard. His family and friends must have offered great support.

Sun exposure and sunburns at a young age is a major risk factor, so certainly protect your kids. Chronic sun exposure without burns is also a risk factor, but only really in the south. Just don't burn.
Freckles and red hair are also big risk factors (gingers beware).

Also, make sure your sunscreen is broad spectrum, covering UVA and UVB. Use a waterproof sunscreen as well.

For glacier/alpine stuff, I find my nose runs a lot at some temps and thus I wipe away the sunscreen there. I use a small Kinesys stick, basically like lap balm with an spf rating to easily re-apply with gloves on.

Finally, keep in mind the ABCD rules for worrying about melanoma:
Asymmetry, irregular border, irregular color, and diameter > 3/16"
There are tons of pictures on the net to help you make a judgment about seeing a doc. The wikipedia article is 'okay'.