Did you know that Vermont has one of the highest incidence rates of melanoma in the U.S.?
By limiting sun exposure you can reduce your skin cancer risk.
Early detection promotes successful treatment, talk to your doctor about your screening options.
Effects of the sun
Effects of the sun
- Just one episode of sunburn, especially in childhood, doubles the lifetime risk of malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.
- Snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays back to you.
- Up to 80% of the sun’s rays can penetrate clouds
- The sun can cause cancer, wrinkles and age spots, even when it’s cold or overcast.
- Exposing the eyes to too much sun over time can lead to cataracts.
5 Winter Prevention Tips
Tip #1: Cover Up
Wear wide-brimmed hats, gloves and long sleeves.
Tip #2: Use Sunscreen
with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher on exposed skin.
Tip #3: Apply lip balm
with SPF, and reapply every 2 hours.
Tip #4: Wear sunglasses or goggles
with UVA and UVB protection.
Tip #5: Avoid indoor tanning
use has been linked with an increased risk of melanoma.
Resources
- Winter Sun Safety: What to know about protecting yourself during colder months
- Simple health and safety tips, and free sunscreen dispenser locations from the Vermont Department of Health.
- Something New Under The Sun: Learn about the signs of melanoma
- All About Sunscreen: Q&A about sunscreen
- 9 Things I'd Never Do As A Dermatologist: How many of these skin 'don'ts' do you do?
- National Cancer Institute Skin Cancer Patient Information.
Partnership Highlights
For questions about the sun safety program, please contact Rachel Zwynenburg, Senior Cancer Outreach Program Director (Rachel.Zwynenburg@med.uvm.edu).