Here Comes the Sun!

We've harped about this a bit lately, but we really can't say it enough...

Wear sunscreen!!! 

If you don't believe us, check out this article from the Food and Drug Administration. It covers subjects like the cancer risk associated with tanning (and other risks), tanning for children and teens, and presents a brief story of one woman who was a sun worshiper and now - 25 scars later - regrets it.

Most disturbing is the review of 19 studies done over the course of 25 years that found evidence of:

• an association between indoor tanning and two types of skin cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma
• an association between UV-emitting tanning devices and cancer of the eye (ocular melanoma)
• both UV-A and UV-B rays causing DNA damage, which can lead to skin cancer in laboratory animals and humans
• the risk of melanoma of the skin increasing by 75 percent when tanning bed use started before age 35

According to the article, "Of the more than 68,000 people in the United States who will learn they have melanoma this year, one out of eight will die from it, according to National Cancer Institute estimates. In addition, the American Academy of Dermatology reports that melanoma is the second most common cancer in women 20 to 29 years old."

Some other things to think about...
Sunburns and sun damage (i.e. tanning) can occur when it's overcast outside, in fall and winter, and even through some clothing. The best way to protect yourself is to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen every time you are outside or in a vehicle - car windows don't have SPF ratings! - or to avoid the sun's rays completely by finding shade if you have to be outside.

Many kinds of lotion and make-up brands are adding sunscreen to their products, and a wide-brimmed hat (with or without a bow) will protect your face if you have sensitive skin.

Be sure to ask your child's daycare provider if they apply sunscreen when they take the kids outside. If they don't do it as a rule, be sure to let them know that your child needs it! Send a little bottle with his/her name on it if you have to. For some great info on sun safety for kids (and their parents!), check out this site.

It's easy to do, but you have to get into the habit. We watch what we eat, and try to get enough exercise, but our bodies can be healthy and still develop skin cancer. Care for your skin as seriously as you care for your other organs - you'll be glad you did.