UV Safety

With July being UV Safety Month, I’d like to take some time to raise awareness about skin cancer and help people take action to prevent it. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the US. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are the main cause. Other complications include eye problems, a weakened immune system, age spots, wrinkles, and leathery skin. The skin is the body’s largest organ. It protects against heat, sunlight, injury, and infection. So, the need to protect it is very clear.

A few easy tips to follow:

• Apply broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours
• Wear sunglasses with a 99 or higher UV block or a wide-brimmed hat
• Limit time spent in the sun
• Motivate school personnel to teach kids about the harmful effects of UV rays and the importance of protecting their bodies
• Do skin self-exams
• Seek shade during the peak hours which are between 10 AM and 4 PM
• Keep in mind that the sun’s rays can pass through clouds
• Never look directly at the sun

Exposure to the sun is not necessarily a bad thing. Spending 10 to 15 minutes per day in the sun is a good length of time to balance Vitamin D levels. Sunlight may lower the risk for multiple sclerosis and lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. Sunlight helps to heal psoriasis, eases mild depression, and can improve sleep quality. A moderate amount of time spent in the sun can be good for you. As with most things, moderation is key.