Summer is just around the corner, and the American Academy of Dermatology says more than 116,000 new cases of melanoma will develop this year.

Skin cancer is visible and can be detected early, and officials say most importantly it is preventable. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to wear sunscreen on exposed skin, plus hats with wide brims and sunglasses.

"Skin cancer is one of the leading cancers and of course melanoma is one of the leading killers, as far as cancer goes," said Pikeville Medical Center Nurse Kathy Clark.

Remember, the sun is most intense between 10 in the morning and 3 in the afternoon.

Officials say you should also steer clear of tanning beds, and have your doctor check spots on your skin that bleed easily or have changed in color.