Blog
National Ultraviolet (UV) Awareness Month
July is National Ultraviolet (UV) Awareness Month. As the weather gets warmer and we spend more time outside this summer, it is important to be aware of the immediate and long-term damage caused by UV exposure. UV rays are an invisible kind of radiation that comes from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps and can damage skin cells. According to the Centers for Disease Control, spending time outside is a great way to be physically active and reduce stress. You can work and play outside without raising your skin cancer risk by protecting your skin from the sun.
Consistent protection is essential because the effects of UV exposure accumulate over time. Short-term consequences such as sunburn may seem temporary, but they indicate skin damage that can lead to more serious conditions. Long-term exposure increases the risk of skin cancers including melanoma, which can be life-threatening if not detected early. People of all colors (this term refers to diverse skin colors and includes people of African, Asian, Latino, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Native American descent), including those with brown and black skin, get skin cancer. Even if you never sunburn, you can get skin cancer.
UV radiation isn’t limited to sunny days or beach outings. It penetrates clouds and can reflect off surfaces like water, sand, and snow, intensifying exposure. This makes UV protection a year-round concern, not just a summer precaution. Checking the UV index—a measure of the intensity of UV radiation from the sun—at your location can inform your outdoor activities and precautions. Higher UV index values indicate a greater risk of harm and should prompt stricter protective measures. Protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer additional defense. Seek shade during peak UV hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to UV damage as their skin is more sensitive and prone to sunburn. Educating young people about sun safety habits—such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses—is crucial in preventing future health problems. Choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and applying it generously to exposed skin can significantly reduce UV-related skin damage. It is important to keep reapplying sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Furthermore, regular skin checks and visits with your primary care provider are vital for early detection of skin cancers. Familiarizing oneself with the ABCDEs of melanoma—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolution of the mole or skin lesion—can aid in recognizing potential warning signs.
Remember: UV awareness is not just about sunburn prevention; it’s about safeguarding our skin, eyes, and overall health from serious diseases such as cancer. By integrating sun-safe practices into our daily routines this summer, we can enjoy the sun responsibly while minimizing its harmful effects. Together, let’s shine a light on UV awareness and make informed choices for a healthier future!