Protect against skin cancer while enjoying outdoor activities

According to the Centers For Disease Control (CDC), skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States.

The CDC reports that each year about 4.3 million adults are treated for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas at a cost of about $4.8 billion.

During the summer months, people are more apt to be outdoors enjoying trips to the beach and spending a lot of time being exposed to the sun.

There is no reason why these outdoor activities can’t be enjoyed without the risk of acquiring skin cancer as long as precautions are taken.

The CDC recommends wearing a wide-brim hat that is made of tightly woven fabric. Avoid any straw hats that allow penetration by the sun’s UV rays.

Wearing sunglasses will protect your eyes and avoid the chance of getting cataracts from exposure to the sun’s harsh rays. It is recommended that you use sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays as these offer the best protection.

Sunscreen should always be applied before skin is exposed to the sun. Put on broad spectrum suncreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of 15 or higher before you go outside. 

Don’t forget to put a thick layer on all exposed skin. Get help for hard-to-reach places like your back. And remember, sunscreen works best when combined with other options. Remember  to reapply the sunscreen after about two hours and sooner if you’ve been swimming or sweating as this can dilute the initial application.

Also, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that sunscreen should not be applied to babies six months or younger, and they should be kept out of the midday sun - use protective clothing if they have to be in the sun.

Finally, you can reduce your risk of sun damage and skin cancer by staying in the shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter. Your best bet to protect your skin is to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing when you’re outside, even when you’re in the shade.