It’s May and almost summer which means it’s time for shorts, short sleeves, swimsuits, flip flops, and fun in the sun. This also means it’s even more important to protect our skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
May is also Skin Cancer Awareness Month. According to the World Health Organization and the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in every three cancers diagnosed is a skin cancer, and one in every five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
Both organizations point to the relationship between the rising incidence of skin cancer and the increasing popularity of outdoor and recreational activities, with the World Health Organization noting that “four out of five cases of skin cancer could be prevented.” Perry Robins, MD, president of the Skin Cancer Foundation says, “Everyone, regardless of skin color, should make staying safe in the sun a priority and incorporate sun-protection measures into their daily life.”
As you get ready for summer and spending time outdoors in the sun, remember these basic prevention tips:
1. Limit time in the midday sun, when UV rays are strongest.
2. Seek the shade when UV rays are most intense, and remember that trees, umbrellas, and canopies do not offer complete protection. Remember the shadow rule: “Watch your shadow – Short shadow, seek shade!”
3. Do not burn.
4. Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths.
5. Wear protective clothing including a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and loose fitting clothing to protect your head, ears, face, eyes, and body.
6. Use a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with SPF 15+ every day. Reapply every two hours, or after working, swimming, playing, or exercising outdoors.
7. Examine your skin and watch for any changes. See your physician every year for a professional skin exam.
If you’ve ever gone on vacation and gotten “accidental” sunburn, you probably learned the hard way that UV radiation levels vary substantially with time and place. Knowing the UV index (UVI) can help you avoid unwanted sunburns (and worse) on your summer vacation this year.
• 0-2: You can safely enjoy being outside.
• 3 to 7: Seek shade during midday hours. Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, and slap on a hat.
• 8 and above: Avoid being outside during midday hours. Make sure you seek shade. Shirt, sunscreen, and hat are a must.
In many places, the UV index is reported along with the weather forecast in newspapers, on TV, and on the radio during summer months. Check the Weather Channel Web site – they include a U.S. calendar with current UVIs.
For more information, please contact Kim Miles, County Extension Agent – Family & Consumer Sciences at 325-646-0386.
