Sun Safety

FACT: Environmental Pollution has caused a considerable thinning of the ozone layer over Canada, and a corresponding increase in ultraviolet radiation. Ultra violet radiation (UVR) from the sun can be a contributing factor in skin cancer, premature aging of the skin, and cataracts later in life. At a recent forum, scientists, health professionals and educators in the field agreed that children need protection from skin damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. Some research indicates that children’s skin is even more sensitive to sun damage that adults.

Winter is finally over and most of us cannot wait to spend time outside in the long awaited season of spring. There are some things you can do to protect yourself from the dangers of the sun and still enjoy it as well. Yes the sun is a source of Vitamin D, and that is good for you. The unfortunate part of that is the suns ultra violet rays are not good for you. So drink a glass of milk and read up on what you need to know.

There are four basic precautions to take when spending time in the sun:

Minimize Sun Exposure:

• Reduce your time in the midday sun. UV rays are strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., so plan your activities before or after these times. Ultraviolet radiation may be increased by reflective surfaces such as water, concrete or sand.

Cover Up:

• Protect your eyes and shade your face with UV absorbent sunglasses and a broad brimmed hat.

• Clothing to cover arms, back and chest is better than any sunscreen.

Seek Shade:

• Shady trees, umbrellas and canopies, especially during 10:00 – 4:00, are recommended for protection from sun.

Use Sunscreen:

• Look for and use a sunscreen product with both UVB and UVA protection with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater. An SPF 30 is usually recommended.

• Apply 20 minutes before going outside, and reapply after swimming or physical activity.

• The temperature does not have to be hot to cause sunburn. Cloudy or overcast weather should still warrant precaution with the use of sunscreen.

• Research shows that sunscreen us most effective when applied liberally and left on the surface of the skin.

The risk of skin cancer is higher for people who:

• Have light-coloured skin, eyes and hair

• Work, play or exercise in the sun for long periods of time

• Had several blistering sunburns as a child

• Have a family history of skin cancer

It is more important to reduce your time in the sun when the UV Index is higher. You can get this information by listening to the news. The UV index is as follows:

FACT: Anyone born today has a 1 in 7 risk of developing skin cancer during his or her lifetime.

For Your Information

Babies need extra protection due to their very sensitive ‘fresh’ skin. It is best to keep babies out of the direct sunlight. Keep strollers and playpens in shaded areas.

• Tanning salons are not a safe way to tan. They do not offer safe tanning without burning. Actually, no tan is a safe tan. A tan is evidence of sun damage. A tanning booth emits ultraviolet rays that can cause burn, aging skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. UVA rays may actually be higher in a tanning bed as compared to the sun!
• Sunglasses can help prevent damage to your eyes by blocking out ultraviolet rays. Choose sunglasses with even shading, medium to dark lenses and a UVA /UVB protection. These qualities can be found in many inexpensive sunglasses too.
• Most skin cancers can be cured, if caught early enough. Get to know your skin and the location/appearance of birthmarks and moles. Check your skin regularly to detect changes.

 

When to see the doctor?

• A birthmark or mole that changes shape, colour, size or surface
• A sore that does not heal
• New growths on your skin
• Patches of skin that bleed, ooze, swell, itch or become red or bumpy
• Only a doctor can tell you if the changes are normal or not.

FACT: Sun protection is more important now than ever before! In Canada, sunlight is strong enough to cause premature aging of the skin and skin cancer.