Jul 12, 2024
I’m Meredith Williams, MPH, RN, OCN, director of cancer services at United Hospital Center. July is Ultraviolet Safety Month and I’m here to answer your questions about UV Rays and skin safety.
1. Is UV exposure only dangerous during the summer?
Protection from UV rays is important all year, not just during the summer. UV rays can reach you on cloudy and cool days, and they reflect off surfaces such as water, cement, sand, and snow. In the continental United States, UV rays are strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daylight saving time (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. standard time).
2. Is there any way to know when UV radiation is most threatening?
Yes. The UV Index provides a daily forecast of the expected intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. If the UV index is 3 or higher in your area, protect your skin from too much exposure to the sun. The UV Index is reported along with the weather forecast in newspapers, on TV, radio, internet, and mobile applications.
Some exposure to sunlight is enjoyable. However, too much sun can be dangerous. Overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation can cause immediate damage, such as sunburn, and long-term problems, such as skin cancer and cataracts.
3. How can the UV Index help me to protect myself?
Most people are used to adjusting their daily plans and choice of clothing to the weather forecast, especially to temperature predictions. Analogous to the temperature scale, the UV Index indicates the level of UV radiation and the potential danger of sun exposure. It can help individuals make healthy choices.
Step 1: Find out today’s UV Index
Step 2: Check out the recommended sun protection.
- UV index - 0 to 2 - You can safely enjoy being outside!
- UV index - 3 to 7 -Seek shade during midday hours! Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on hat!
- UV index - 8 and above - Avoid being outside during midday hours! Make sure you seek shade! Shirt, sunscreen and hat are a must!
Even for very sensitive fair-skinned people, the risk of short-term and long-term UV damage below a UVI of 2 is limited, and under normal circumstances no protective measures are needed.
If sun protection is required, this should include all protective means, such as clothing, hat and sunglasses, shade, and sunscreen.
This content was originally posted on the WDTV News website here.
Please note, the information provided throughout this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and video, on or available through this website is for general information purposes only. If you are experiencing related symptoms, please visit your doctor or call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
