Magnolia Matters - 2019 Spring/Summer

Sun Safety WHY PRACTICE SUN SAFETY? More than 90% of skin cancer is caused by sun exposure. • Sun exposure doesn’t have to be from the sun. Tanning beds emit the same harmful UV rays that the sun does. One bad burn in childhood doubles the risk factor for melanoma later in life. • Parents – help lower your child’s chances of skin cancer by protecting their skin now. Skin cancer accounts for more than 50% of all cancers combined. HOWTO PRACTICE SUN SAFETY? • Seek the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. That is when the sun’s rays are strongest. • Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours. Or more frequently if sweating or swimming. • Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreen should be used on babies over the age of 6 months. • Remember: There is no such thing as a safe base tan. All sun damage is just that – damage! www.MRHC.org MAGNOLIA MATTERS 23