| While some
exposure to sunlight can be enjoyable, too much can be dangerous. Overexposure
to ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight can result in a painful sunburn. It
can also lead to more serious health effects, including skin cancer, premature
aging of the skin, and other skin disorders; cataracts and other eye damage;
and immune system suppression. Children are particularly at risk of
overexposure, since most of the average person's lifetime exposure occurs
before the age of 18.
Most people are not aware
that skin cancer, while largely preventable, is the most common form of cancer
in the United States, with more than one million cases reported annually. By
following a number of simple steps, you can still enjoy your time in the sun
while protecting yourself from overexposure. Other than staying indoors, no
single step can fully protect from overexposure to UV radiation, so use as
many of the following actions as possible.
Limit Time in the Midday
Sun
The sun's rays are strongest
between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Whenever possible, limit exposure to the sun during
these hours.
Always Use Sunscreen
Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen of an Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at
least 15 or higher liberally on exposed skin and reapply every 2 hours when
working or playing outdoors. Even waterproof sunscreen can come off when you
towel off, sweat, or spend extended periods of time in the water.
Wear a Hat
A hat with a wide brim offers good sun protection to your eyes, ears,
face, and the back of your neck - areas particularly prone to overexposure to
the sun.
Cover Up
Wearing tightly woven, loose-fitting, and full-length clothing is a good
way to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays.
Wear Sunglasses that
Block 99-100% of UV Radiation
Sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA
and UVB protection
will greatly reduce sun exposure that can lead to cataracts and other eye
damage. Check the label when buying sunglasses.
Avoid Sunlamps and
Tanning Parlors
The light source from sunbeds and sunlamps damages the skin and
unprotected eyes. It's a good idea to avoid artificial sources of UV light.
Watch for the UV Index
The UV Index
provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities in
ways that prevent overexposure to the sun. Developed by the National Weather
Service (NWS) and EPA, the UV Index is
issued daily in selected cities across the United States.
Note: "SunWise" and
"SunWise, a School Program that Radiates Good Ideas" are trademarks of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency." |
