|
Are You Sun-Smart?
It’s wonderful to see that warm sun and to feel it on our skin
especially after that cold snowy winter and spring! However, please
be careful when out in the sun. The American Cancer Society tells us
that more than one million new cases of skin cancer will be
diagnosed in the United States this year.
The American Academy of Dermatology gives some great information on
ways to protect us from developing skin cancer:
-
Generously
apply a water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection
Factor (SPF) of at least 15 that provides broad-spectrum
protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB)
rays to all exposed skin. Re-apply every two hours, even on
cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Look for the AAD
SEAL OF RECOGNITIONä
on products that meet these criteria.
-
Wear protective
clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a
wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, where possible.
-
Seek shade
when appropriate, remembering that the sun's rays are strongest
between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. If your shadow is shorter than
you are, seek shade.
-
Protect
children from sun exposure by playing in the shade, using
protective clothing and applying sunscreen.
-
Use extra
caution near water and sand as they reflect the damaging
rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
-
Get vitamin D
safely through a healthy diet that includes vitamin
supplements. Don't seek the sun.
-
Avoid tanning
beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can
cause skin cancer and wrinkling.
-
Check your
birthday suit on your birthday. If you notice anything
changing, growing or bleeding on your skin, see a
dermatologist. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early.
For more information visit
http://www.aad.org/public/sun/smart.html
Blessings,
Linda McCowen
Parish Nurse
|
