(05/05/08) THE BRONX ? Doctors are using Melanoma Awareness Month as a way to remind for residents to get their skin checked out.

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer for people in their late 20s. However, if caught early, it is 95 percent curable.

A major reason skin cancer is so dangerous is related to common misconceptions. For instance, people think it?s a good idea to hit the tanning bed to build up a ?base tan? before heading outside. But doctors say that?s merely skin damage that can lead to skin cancer.

Doctors say check-ups and self-exams are important in the battle against skin cancer.

American Academy of Dermatology