As an industry that primarily works outdoors, it’s important to take precautions against Ultraviolet (UV) radiation. July is UV Awareness Month, encouraging us to take time to understand the impact the sun may have on our health and wellness. Our skin is the largest and heaviest organ of the body.
Taking care of it should be a priority to ensure our health for years to come; it’s our external defense protecting what is inside. Both natural and artificial UV rays can be the leading cause of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell cancer, and squamous cell cancer. Varying in severity, these types of cancer can be caused by the duration and intensity of UV exposure. Additional risks also rise, as sunburn can complicate the risks.
While outside, keep these three simple things in mind:
- The shade is your friend, so seek it out when appropriate
- Clothing with UV sun protection can help reduce sunburn
- Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher can help reduce burns, but remember, sunscreens are not all created equal.
UV exposure is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM; paying attention to the time of day can help reduce your exposure. It may be obvious, but you will see stronger UV exposure in Spring and Summer; but, even in the Winter, they can still be of concern. For our friends who live closer to the equator, their risk is significantly higher than that of those in the Northeast. And even if it’s cloudy, UV rays can still be a concern. Overcast doesn’t mean they disappear, especially at higher elevations. As we often work near pavement, keep in mind the UV rays like to bounce off pavement, snow, sand, water, and more, increasing your risk of exposure.
Speaking with a dermatologist can help you understand your UV risk, damage, and potential skin cancer concerns. Most dermatology deemed medically necessary is covered by insurance. So, if you have a concern about a specific spot, try to find one near you today. Skin cancer, when caught early, has high survival rates. Make sure to take precautions against UV rays to ensure your skin stays healthy and happy.
– Andrea Wentzell, Marketing & Benefits Manager
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology Association, Cancer.org, American Institute for Cancer Research