Be Safe This Summer!

Summer is here–at last. Before you rush out to soak up those rays, remember that overexposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause many types of skin damage. Did you know that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S.? The good news? It’s preventable: with early detection, skin cancer can be cured in up to 95 percent of cases.

Follow these tips:

• High noon. It’s tempting to slather yourself with oil and lay yourself out to roast at high noon. Not the best strategy for long-term skin health, though. For one thing, the sun’s rays are strongest between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. If you must slather and roast, do it late in the day.
• Safe tanning? Is “safe” tanning your solution to the dangers of sun exposure? Sadly, there’s no such thing as a safe tan, so avoid the tanning bed, which emits UVA rays. An American Cancer Society study reported that the risk of developing melanoma is eight times higher in people 35 or younger who used tanning beds regularly.
• SPF? Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 and protects against both UVA and UVB rays when you go outside. For the best protection, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply it every two hours throughout the day, and more often if you are swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to apply it to your face, ears, hands and arms. Last thing you want is an ear tan. Also, don’t forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that contains SPF 15 or higher.
• Button up. The best way to prevent sun damage, in addition to sunscreen? Wear protective clothing of tightly woven fabric that covers your arms and legs, and a broad-brimmed hat. Ok, so hip it’s not, but it works. And just think of all the money you’ll save on wrinkle cream!
• Eye-Q. Add sunglasses to that outfit and not only are you incognito, your eyes are safer. Spending time in the sun without eye protection can increase your chances of developing eye disease, so be sure your sunglasses have UVA and UVB protection.
• Rx du soleil. Be aware of prescription and over-the-counter medications that make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Many antibiotics have that effect. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about any sun side effects associated with your medications.
• 40 + sun = check up. Lucky you! Now that you’re 40, you can add annual skin exams to your growing medical to-do list. Get them more often if you’re at high risk of developing melanoma because of family history or other reasons.
• Seeing spots? Freckles are adorable. They can also be your early warning system. Check your skin regularly for new skin growths or changes in existing moles, freckles, bumps and birthmarks. Report changes to your doctor or dermatologist.
• Cloud cover. Did you know that up to 80% of the sun’s rays can penetrate through light clouds, mist or fog? Don’t be fooled by cooler weather or cloudy days. The sun may not feel strong, but its rays are still dangerous.
• Kid stuff. Do them a big favor and make sure they use sunscreen and dress protectively every day. Protecting skin in the first 18 years of life can reduce the risk of some types of skin cancer by up to 78%.

This e-newsletter is the second of a series designed to help you make the most of The Benefits of Nielsen. Each issue will provide tips and information related to a central theme that will help you use your benefits to Live Well. Click through each section for help managing your health, your health plan and your future.

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