Play it safe in the summer sun

Spending time out in the sun can be fun and invigorating, and in Texas there’s almost no way to avoid it. But before you start soaking up too many rays, consider these facts, courtesy of the Sun Safety Alliance:

• Skin cancer is the fastest-growing cancer in the country, with an estimated 1.3 million new cases diagnosed last year alone.
• One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in his/her lifetime.
• Children average three times more exposure to the sun than adults.
• One serious sunburn in childhood can double the risk of skin cancer.

The Sun Safety Alliance recommends taking the following precautions before heading outdoors:

• Apply sunscreen that protects against ultraviolet (UV) rays whenever you’re outdoors (adults should use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher; children should use SPF 30 or higher)
• Apply sunscreen every two hours, and after swimming, perspiring or toweling off
• Wear UV protective sunglasses
• Wear a hat with a wide brim
• Seek shade at peak sun hours

For more information visit the Sun Safety Alliance online. Information is also available from the American Cancer Society.

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H.E.A.D.s Up is a monthly column that features articles on a wide array of Health, Exercise And Diet issues. Information for these articles is provided by health and wellness professionals from throughout the A&M System. If you have questions or story ideas for this column, email Ruth McMullan.

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