Be Safe in the Sun

One of the main causes of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet radiation, or UV rays. UV rays are invisible, and are produced by the sun and tanning lamps. Most often, skin cancer is the result of overexposure.

Most cases of skin cancer are preventable.
You can reduce your risk of getting skin cancer by taking some simple but important steps. To avoid the harmful effects of UV rays, everyone should:

• Select shaded areas for outdoor activities.
• Wear a broad-brimmed hat and clothing with a tight weave, including a long-sleeved shirt and long pants, if you have to be in the sun for long periods of time.
• Use a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15. Make sure it has both UVA and UVB protection. Apply to exposed skin 15 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun, and re-apply 15 to 30 minutes after sun exposure begins. You should also re-apply sunscreen after vigorous activity that could remove the product, such as swimming, toweling or excessive sweating and rubbing.
• Avoid overexposing yourself to the sun without protection, especially between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
• Certain medications can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. Consult your health care provider if you have questions about your medication.

Remember that babies and children are at greater risk than adults because of their more sensitive skin.  

Talk to your health care provider about any changes to your skin like:

• a birthmark or a mole that changes shape, colour, size or surface
• any new growth on your skin – pale, pearly nodules that may grow larger and crust, or red, scaly, sharply defined patches
• any sore that doesn’t heal
• any patch of skin that bleeds, oozes, swells, itches or becomes red and bumpy

Preventative Health Care – the Easiest Way to Protect Your Future!