ESPEach year on the Friday before Memorial Day, National Don’t Fry Day aims to raise awareness of all the risks of overexposure to the sun. Today, we are stressing the importance for everyone to remember to use sun protection and practice sun safety.
Unfortunately, skin cancer is increasing in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that one American dies every hour from skin cancer. The risk for ultraviolet (UV) damage to the skin increases as we spend more time enjoying the outdoors now that warmer weather is upon us. We need to take precautions when we are outside in the sun.
It's important to be proactive about protection. When in the sun, wear sunscreen or other skin protection including hats and long sleeves. Spend time in the shade and take an umbrella with you. The sun's rays can cause damage even on cloudy days. Re-apply sunscreen, too! Using a good sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat are a few ways to get started with sun safety.
