Health Care: Fun in the Sun and Great Skin

National Sun Awareness Week 2006 takes place from Monday, May 29 to Sunday, June 4. For the 2006 campaign, the Canadian Dermatology Association will be focusing on sports and fun in the sun. The purpose of the campaign is to educate Canadians about the dangers of too much sun, and help curb the rising incidence of skin cancer.

What You Can Do:

Reduce sun exposure between 11 am. and 4 pm., or when the UV index is 3 or more
Seek shade or create your own shade, especially if you are outside between 11 am. and 4 pm.
Cover your arms and legs and choose clothing that is loose fitting, tightly woven and lightweight
Wear a wide-brimmed hat: most skin cancers occur on the face and neck so this area needs extra protection
Wear a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher – SPF 30 if you work outdoors or if you will be outside for most of the day
Apply sunscreen generously, 20 minutes before outdoor activities and reapply often
Babies need extra protection: keep babies under one year out of the direct sun
Wear sunglasses to help prevent damage to your eyes

(Information from Canadian Health Network).

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