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Community Health: Education, Prevention & Inspiration

Summer Sun Safety!!

It's here, It's here, It's here…..

Yes… Summer is finally here (after a long winter) but we have to make sure we are prepared for the Sun!! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2015) skin cancer is the number one cancer in the United States which and most cases of melanoma, the deadliest kind of skin cancer, are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light (Sun)

We all want to enjoy our summer and not have to worry about skin cancer, skin burn or any other sun causing illnesses. IN order to make this summer the best yet, here are a few tips for summer sun safety…..

1. Wear sunscreen every day, in all weather and in every season. It should have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 and say "broad-spectrum" on the label, which means it protects against the sun's UVA and UVB rays. Put it on at least 15 minutes before going outside. Use 1 ounce, which would fill a shot glass.

2. Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours or more often if you're sweating or swimming.

3. Wear sunglasses with total UV protection.

4. Wear wide-brimmed hats, and long-sleeved shirts and pants.

5. Avoid being out in the sun as much as possible from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

6. Check your skin regularly so you know what's normal for you and to notice any changes or new growths.

7. Choose cosmetics and contact lenses that offer UV protection. You still need to use sunscreen and wear sunglasses with broad-spectrum sun protection.

8. If you're a parent, protect your child's skin and practice those habits together.

9. Don't use tanning beds.

For more information about Sun Safety and skin cancer:

http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/

http://www.webmd.com/beauty/sun/sun-safety-save-your-skin