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VITALITY
Summer 2016
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COMMUNITY
Say bye-bye to the burn
Protect kids from the sun
The sun may be 93 million miles away,
but it’s close to most kids’ hearts.
That’s because sunny days are great for the outdoor activities that many kids
love. But without proper protection, kids can end up with a painful sunburn
today that may lead to some serious problems in the future—including skin
cancer.
SUN-SAVVYTIPS
It only takes about 15 minutes for the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays to damage
unprotected skin. Because these powerful rays can even break through
clouds, kids need to have their skin protected on overcast days as well as
on sunny ones.
Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin
cancer. These ABCDEs can help you tell if
you should see a doctor about a mole or
spot. Even one of these signs is a reason to
see a doctor right away.
ASYMMETRY
Half of the mole or spot is
unlike the other half.
BORDER
It has an irregular or undefined border.
COLOR
The color changes from one area to another.
DIAMETER
The mole or spot is larger than a pencil
eraser. (Can be smaller.)
EVOLVING
It looks different from others on
your body or is changing.
The ABCDEs
of melanoma
SKIN CANCER
To make sure your kids are covered every day:
Layer wisely.
About 30 minutes before going outside, kids need
their first layer of protection: sunscreen. Use one that’s labeled
broad spectrum
, which means it screens out both UVA and UVB
rays. It should also have an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30.
For extra protection on sensitive areas, like noses and shoulders,
choose a product with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Clothes made with a tight weave offer the best sun protection.
When possible, dress kids in long-sleeved shirts and lightweight
cotton pants. Top off every outfit with a brimmed hat that covers the
scalp and shades the ears, face and neck.
To help shield their eyes from the sun, kids also need sunglasses.
(Exposure to UV rays can cause cataracts later in life.) Look for
sunglasses with labels that say they offer at least 99 percent UV
protection.
Watch the time.
The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m.
and 4 p.m.—good hours for indoor activities. But if your kids are
playing outside, make sure they get an additional dose of sunscreen
every two hours.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology; American Academy of Pediatrics; Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention
Source: American Academy of Dermatology