Sunburns sustained during childhood or adolescence nearly doubles a person’s risk of developing melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer later in life.
Here are some tips to incorporate in your children and grandchildren’s life at home and while in school:
1. Protect. If possible, choose lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection. Seek shade, whenever possible, when spending time outdoors.
2. Educate. Children of all ages should know the importance of sun protection that will help them develop sun-safe habits that will last a lifetime.
3. Avoid peak hours. Schedule outdoor activities to avoid peak hours between 10 AM to 2 PM.
4. Sunscreen. Generously apply broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF rating of at least 30.
Remember to teach your children (and grandchildren) to like PEAS — protect, educate, avoid peak hours, and sunscreen. Sun protection is important at every stage of life. We encourage you and your family to develop sun protection habits as early as now.
