You probably know the importance of wearing sunscreen. It's just a matter of selecting the right sun protection and applying it properly. We're adding another consideration to the mix. A study published recently in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association reports almost 1 billion people worldwide get too little vitamin D.

D is the "sunshine vitamin" because it's produced when the skin is exposed to the sun's rays. Since Vitamin D receptors are found in almost every type of cell, it plays an important role is functions from immune to inflammatory response. A host of symptoms may be rooted in deficiencies, including muscle weakness and bone fractures.

Wearing SPF 15 decreases Vitamin D production by 99 percent, so it's important to balance your body's metabolic requirements and sun protection needs. Researchers urge:

• 5 to 30 minutes of midday sun exposure, two times per week
• Sunbathing is not required; a short walk with exposed arms and legs will do
• Enjoy fortified milk, cereals, and food sources such as Portobello mushrooms and eggs
• Take supplements as directed by your doctor

Have you noticed a changing mole, a scaly patch, or a growing lump? All of these can potentially be early signs of skin cancer. The good news is, most forms of skin cancer are curable, but the key is catching it and treating it early. The best way to do so is by regularly checking your skin for moles, patches, and lumps, and reporting any changes or concerns to your dermatologist immediately.

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