As Sun Safety Week begins today and continues through June 7th, it is important to acknowledge the consequences associated with extensive sun exposure and remember a few safety tips to help protect yourself and those you love. The
American Cancer Society has found that more than one million cases of skin cancer are reported each year and the
Journal of American Medical Association reports that one in five will develop skin cancer in his or her lifetime.
We have listed a few sun safety tips, from the Sun Safety Alliance, to help reduce your likelihood of developing skin cancer or other related complications.
- Generously apply sunscreen with SPF of at least 15 which provides broad-spectrum protections from both UVA and UVB rays. Re- apply at least every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
- Wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection
- Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm
- Avoid tanning beds. UV light from tanning beds can lead to skin cancer and wrinkling. Consider using a sunless self-tanning product instead.
- Use extra caution near water, snow and sand as they reflect the UV rays, increasing your chance of sunburn
- Drink plenty of water
- Remember to practice sun safety every day, all year long!
- A: Asymmetrical shape – One half is unlike the other half
- B: Border irregularity – Border is notched or scalloped
- C: Color change – Skin is varied from one color to another
- D: Diameter – Diameter of mole or skin lesion exceeds 1/4 inch
- E: Evolving/ Elevation – Mole or skin lesion changes in size, color or shape as time passes or a pigmented lesion that goes from being flat to being elevated