Friday, February 26, 2010

8 WAYS TO PREVENT SKIN CANCER

1. Reduce Sun Exposure

· Especially between 11 am and 4 pm, when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest.

2. Shade your Skin

· Seek shade under trees, or create your own shade with a hat, short, or umbrella.

· Wear clothing to cover your arms and legs. Make sure the fabric has a tight weave.

· Wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.

3. Beware of clouds

· Up to 80% of the sun rays can penetrate light clouds, mist and fog. You can still get sunburn on a cloudy day.

4. Remember about Reflection

· Water, sand, snow and concrete can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s damaging rays.

5. Slop on the Sunscreen

· Use sunscreens with an SPF 15 or more that contain both UVA and UVB protection.

· Apply sunscree 15-30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2hrs.

6. Avoid tanning salons and sunlamps

· These lights emit mostly UVA radiation – up to 2 – 5 times as much as natural sunlight. UVA radiation causes sunburn, premature aging of the skin and skin cancer.

· The UVB radiation from tanning lights is the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer and also contributes to premature skin aging.

7. Protect Children

· The most harmful effects of sun exposure occur during early childhood. Keep babies under 1 year out of direct sunlight. Once infants turn 6 months of age, begin using a sunscreen for added protection.

8. Spot Check Your Moles

· Examine your moles and freckles every month to check for any changes. See your health care provider immediately if you notice any new growth or the following:

o a mole or discolouration that appears suddenly or begins to change

a sore that does not heal

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