As summer draws near, the UNMC safety council reminds medical center employees to be mindful of the sun and its ability to wreak havoc on skin.
The committee urges employees to put on sunscreen before they head out to participate in outdoor activities in the warmer months.
The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention reports that more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. That’s more than the number of new cases of all other cancers combined.
Overexposure to the sun’s harmful rays is the main cause of skin cancer.
To avoid sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer, the council suggests that people:
- Avoid sun tanning and tanning beds;
- Wear protective clothing such as long-sleaved shirts, pants and hats and sunglasses;
- Remain in the shade when possible; and
- Be particularly vigilant about sunscreen use and sun protection near water, snow and sand, which can intensify the sun’s rays.