As the summer sun beams down, it’s the perfect time to remind ourselves about the importance of UV safety. July is UV Safety Month, a time to focus on protecting our skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and preventing skin cancer. By choosing safe sun habits, we can enjoy the sunshine while keeping our skin healthy and radiant.
Understanding UV Rays and Their Effects
UV rays are a type of radiation from the sun that can damage the skin and lead to skin cancer. There are two main types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. UVA rays can quickly age the skin, causing wrinkles and age spots, while UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn. Both types can lead to the development of skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the United States.
Skin Cancer Prevention
Preventing skin cancer starts with protecting your skin from UV rays. Here are some useful ways to keep your skin safe this summer:
- Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours, and more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Seek Shade: Stay in the shade, especially during the peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Cover up with long-sleeved shirts, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV rays that can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
By following these simple steps, you can lower your risk of skin cancer and enjoy the summer sun safely.
Safe Sun Habits for Children
Children are especially at risk from the harmful effects of UV rays, so it’s important to practice safe sun habits early on. Here are some tips to keep kids safe in the sun:
- Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on your child’s skin. Reapply every two hours, and after swimming or sweating.
- Dress for Protection: Make sure children wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses with UV protection.
- Encourage Shade: Teach children to play in the shade during peak sun hours.
- Set a Good Example: Show your kids the importance of sun protection by practicing safe sun habits yourself.
The Role of Primary Care in UV Safety
Primary care providers, especially pediatricians, play a vital role in educating families about UV safety and skin cancer prevention. During routine check-ups, pediatricians can discuss the importance of sun protection and recommend strategies to keep children safe from harmful UV rays. They can also perform skin exams to check for any unusual moles or spots that may need further evaluation.
As we celebrate UV Safety Month this July, let’s commit to protecting our skin from harmful UV rays and preventing skin cancer. By adopting safe sun habits and educating our children about UV safety, we can enjoy the summer sun while keeping our skin healthy and vibrant. Remember, primary care providers are here to support you and your family in making informed decisions about sun protection and overall health.
Want to get a head start on your health? Call MHEDS at 814-453-6229 (Peach Street) or 814-616-7730 (John F. Kennedy Center).
Disclaimer
Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. MHEDS’ providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Sources
- Skin Cancer Foundation. (n.d.). How UV Radiation Causes Skin Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Sun Safety Facts. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/skin-cancer/sun-safety/index.html
- American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Sunscreen FAQs. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/sunscreen-patients/sunscreen-faqs
