Summertime… the sun, ocean waves, picnics, barbeques, exercising and playing outside; these are just a few summer pleasantries we hope you are enjoying. The sun and its ultraviolet (UV) radiation accompanies you while you are outdoors, so to prevent you from obtaining sun damage in the form of a sunburn or worse - skin cancer, the Wellesley Health Department would like to remind you to take precautions while you enjoy your outdoor activities.
Skin Cancer Prevention
According the American Cancer Society, "Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers and accounts for about half of all cases in the United States. It is also the most preventable and there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer." Here are actions the American Academy of Dermatology cites as part of a comprehensive skin cancer/sun protection program:
· Use sunscreens everyday if you are going to be in the sun for more than 20 minutes.
· Apply sunscreens to dry skin 15-30 minutes before going outdoors.
· Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
· When applying sunscreen, pay particular attention to the face, ears, hands and arms, and generously coat the skin that is not covered by clothing.
· Reapply sunscreens every two hours or immediately after swimming or strenuous activity.
· Avoid deliberate tanning with indoor or outdoor light.
· Wear protective clothing.
· Limit sun exposure during peak hours (10am-4:00pm).
The Health Department is taking steps to ensure that parents, camp counselors, lifeguards, and young and old alike are equipped with the appropriate information and resources to protect themselves (or those in their care) from sun damage and skin cancer. Brochures, bookmarks, washable tattoos, activity guides and posters are available to camps and day care centers.
Don't forget, the sun's UV rays are present in the fall and winter too, so continue your safe sun exposure practices year round. For more information, please contact the Wellesley Health Department, 781-235-0135, or check out these websites:
To Obtain the Daily UV Index:
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