Be Safe in the Sun while you walk in the Light! …because Wellness Matters!

It is commonly known that the sun’s ultraviolet A, B, and C radiation causes skin aging, skin reactions, reactions with medications, sunburns, and most importantly, skin cancer. Basal cell and squamous cell cancers are the most common (90-95%); and are usually only “skin deep”. Melanoma, although a rare cancer, may result in the cancer spreading to other organs and is more serious. Early detection and treatment are the best defenses against sun-damaged skin. Examine your skin regularly. Any change in an existing mole or skin lesion, new irregular skin spot or darkened patch should be checked out by your physician.

You may be at an increased risk of skin cancer if you have light natural skin color, family history, blue or green eyes, blond or red hair, have skin moles and exposure to the sun. Remember, that dark or tanned skin can still burn. Additionally, some prescription meds increase skin reactions to the sun; so, be sure to ask your pharmacist and protect yourself with sunscreen. Common meds include: ACE inhibitors, amiodarone,antibiotics, anti-inflammatory meds, diuretics and others.

Fortunately, skin cancer is easy to prevent. Wearing wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, dark clothes and using sunscreens offers protection against the sun. Sunscreens are scored by their Sunburn Protection Factor (SPF), with higher numbers offering more protection. If you burn easily, you should use sunscreens with a score of SPF 30 or higher. Some sunscreens may also advertise protection from “UV-A” rays by using a 4-star system; the more stars the better protection.

Tips on How to Protect Yourself

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and American Cancer Society offer these action steps to protect yourself and your family from harmful UV rays:

• Limit your time in the midday sun. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  
• Seek Shade. Using an umbrella or other cover while on the beach, at the pool, or outdoors for any reason is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the sun.
  
• Use sunscreen with an SPF factor of 15 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied 20 to 30 minutes before going outside. Use a generous amount and be sure to cover all exposed areas of skin. Most sunscreens need to be reapplied every 2 hours and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating for maximum protection.
  
• Wear a hat. Choose a hat with a wide brim that will protect your eyes, face, and the back of your neck from the sun.
  
• Cover up. Wear tightly woven, loose-fitting, full-length clothing.
  
• Avoid sunlamps and tanning parlors. The UV light from these artificial sources can damage your skin just like the sun.
  
• Watch the UV index. Knowing what the UV exposure is for your area can help you take precautions.
  

So, if you are going out in the sun for more than 15 minutes, lather up and double up by combining hats or umbrellas with sun protection.