June is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month

UV Safety Month

July is known as ultraviolet (UV) safety month. The goal is to raise awareness of the importance of protecting our eyes and skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. People who have prolonged exposure to UV rays are prone to premature skin aging and skin cancers. One in five people are diagnosed with some form of skin cancer throughout their lives, and skin cancer remains the most common form of cancer in the United States. Just five sunburns can significantly increase the risk of developing melanoma!

So, how can you protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV rays?

• If possible, stay in the shade. Sitting under trees or an umbrella is a great way to keep cool and avoid the sun.
• Wear a hat, long-sleeved shirts, and pants while outside.
• Choose to do activities outside while the sun is not bright. Typically, the best times are in the morning and evening. The sun is the brightest at noon every day.
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher and reapply this often while outside.

UV light easily penetrates eye tissues, potentially increasing the risk of eye problems such as macular degeneration, eyelid skin cancers, permanent changes to the cornea or iris, and cataracts. The best protection for your eyes against UV damage is sunglasses. Choose sunglasses with a minimum rating of UV400, marked as providing 99 to 100 percent protection from UVA and UVB rays. Activities near water, snow, sand, and other reflective surfaces increase UV exposure, so eye protection is vital in these environments. It would help if you considered polarized lenses to reduce glare and wear wraparound sunglasses or goggles to protect yourself from intense light or debris.

As July ushers in UV Safety Month, it’s a timely reminder of the vital steps to shield ourselves from the sun’s harmful rays. By making simple yet effective changes in our daily habits, we can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and protect our eyes from long-term damage. Whether seeking shade, donning protective clothing, or choosing the right sunscreen and sunglasses, each action contributes to a healthier, safer lifestyle. Remember, taking care of your skin and eyes today means enjoying the benefits of a sun-safe future. Stay vigilant, stay protected, and embrace the sunshine responsibly!

By: Charlotte Waling, Nurse Practitioner