With summer starting, it’s a good time to learn about UV radiation and the effects that exposure has on the body, as well as ways to protect yourself and prevent sunburns, sun damage, and skin cancer.
UV radiation is a form of invisible radiation that comes from naturally from the sun’s rays. It can also be used in an artificial form such as tanning beds and sunlamps, and less commonly in certain types of lights and lasers. While UV radiation offers some benefits, such as Vitamin D, overexposure can lead to health risks to the skin and eyes, such as sunburn, skin cancer, and eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
There are three different types of UV rays
How to protect yourself and family:
- Wear sunscreen – use one with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply frequently
- Cover up with protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants, hats and sunglasses.
- Seek shades when possible.
- Avoid tanning beds.
- Know your risk by getting regular skin screenings.
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