Local Weather Forecast
Today: Current:70	Saturday: 91/67	Sunday: 92/70
Complete Forecast for  Sep 06 2008

TOP JOBS

It’s that time again in Texas when the temperatures get up to three-digit numbers, but it isn’t just the heat that is getting to you. The sun also emits UV rays which can be harmful to the skin.

Did you know that excessive exposure to the ultraviolet radiation of the sun is the most important preventable cause of all skin cancers?

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, and according to the National Cancer Institute it is estimated that there will be 62,480 new cases in the United States as well as 8,430 deaths in 2008.

Don’t let yourself or your family members be a part of these numbers. Learning a few things about skin safety can help you prevent it. Here’s what you need to know about skin cancer — but were afraid to ask.

Am I at risk for skin cancer?

If you live in Texas, the answer is almost certainly “yes.” Texans have a one in three chance of developing skin cancer.

Why should I worry about skin cancer? My parents and grandparents had never heard of it.

Skin cancer rates are rising every decade. Scientists think one reason for this is a change in the earth’s atmosphere that allows more ultraviolet (UV) radiation through. Also, we don’t wear clothes that cover most of our bodies like our parents and grandparents did.

What causes skin cancer?

Sunlight contains Ultravio-let-A (UV-A) and Ultraviolet-B (UV-B) light bands. UV-B light is strongest at midday and causes sunburn. UV-A is present more consistently all day. It causes tanning, thickening and wrinkling of the skin, cataracts of the eyes, and can depress the immune system. Both UV-A and UV-B can cause skin cancer.

SUNSCREENS

There are different types of UV rays that come from the sun. Some sunscreens only protect from one type. Be sure to get a sunscreen that protects from both UVA and UVB rays.

Just because it is cloudy outside doesn’t mean that the UV rays are blocked from reaching your skin. Like light, UVA rays can go through glass, so before taking off for a car ride don’t forget to put some sunscreen on. UV rays can also do damage to your eyes, so find a wide (3-inch) brim hat and some sunglasses to protect your face as well.

Some tips on keeping UV rays from harming you:

Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going out in the sun. It needs to soak in before being effective. Make it a morning routine and then you’ll never forget.

Apply sunscreen every two hours when in the sun – SPF 30 or higher and one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Remember the hat and sunglasses, too.

Fill a basket by the front door with sunglasses, hats and sunscreen, so as you rush out the door you remember to take a bottle with you to reapply later as needed.

Make playing in the shade fun. During the peak hours of the day when the sun’s rays are at their highest point find some fun games at http://gameskidsplay.net.

Use extra caution around water and sand. These surfaces reflect the UV rays which can increase your chances of getting a sun burn.

Check your skin regularly. Look for new moles or changes in existing moles, dark patches or long pearly-looking bumps. Tell your doctor about any changes.

If you want to learn more, check out http://coolshade.-tamu.edu/index.asp.

The Texas AgriLife Extension Service and Texas Cancer Council encourage you and your family to practice sun-safe habits this summer and throughout the year.

Shelia Lewis is a Smith County Extension agent in family and consumer sciences. She can be reached at sk-lewis@tamu.edu. This column on family and consumer education news appears in the Thursday Community section of the Tyler Morning Telegraph.