Looking forward to being outside with the sunny days we have had and are yet to come? While we all have much to keep us busy outside, we may forget the harm the sun exposure can cause. Whether you are working or recreating, long days in the sun can be a serious health hazard in the form of various skin cancers and other health concerns. Cumulative sun exposure is a major factor in the development of skin cancer. The sun’s rays are more damaging during the summer months and during the midday hours (10 am – 4 pm,) even when it is cloudy. In addition, exposure is increased when at higher altitudes and around bright surfaces such as sand, water, snow and concrete.

Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can result in a painful sunburn. And, sure, we have all had our share of sunburns but it can lead to more serious health problems. One is skin cancer--the most common form of cancer in the U.S. A severe sunburn is one of the biggest risk factors in getting melanoma skin cancer. Individuals, who have previously had a skin cancer or are at greater risk for such cancer because of pre-cancers, family history or fairness of skin, should check sun-exposed skin monthly for red or non-healing lesions. Beware of sores that bleed easily. Large, flat moles should be watched monthly, even if they are not on exposed skin.

Damage from exposure to UV rays builds up over time, so sun protection should start at an early age. Much of what is considered normal skin aging is really the result of life-long exposure to sunlight. “Liver spots,” “crows-feet,” rough “chicken skin,” “red necks” and easy bruising on hands and arms are all sign of this exposure. Additional health problems include cataracts and other eye damage and immune system suppression.

Sun avoidance is the easiest way to reduce exposure, however, it is not always an option. Other prevention efforts include wearing protective gear such as hats which cover your face, ears, neck and scalp, sunglasses and clothing that covers your skin such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks. Closely woven or knitted fabrics are more protective because they lack open spaces to let UV through to your skin. Clothes dyed in dark colors (black, navy, red) have more dye to absorb UV and shield your skin more than light colors.

Parts of the body not covered by clothes or a hat should be protected by applying a thick layer of broad-spectrum sunscreen or sunblock with an SPF of 15 or higher at least 15 minutes before going outside, even on cloudy or overcast days. Be sure to reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating or towelling off. It is especially important to follow these same protections for children and young adults. For additional protection against UV, look for products which include Mexoryl, Parsol 1789, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide or avobenzone as ingredients.

The above information was compiled from http://www.epa.gov/sunwise, http://www.cdc.gov and Iowa State University Extension.

To learn more, contact Janell at the Chouteau County Extension Office at 622-3036, janellb@montana.edu or in the green building next to the Chouteau County Courthouse at 1308 Franklin St in Fort Benton.

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Montana State University, US Department of Agriculture and Montana Counties Cooperating. MSU Extension is an equal opportunity/affirmative action provider of educational outreach.