Ontario's doctors: Practice Sun Safety this summer

TORONTO, June 5, 2013 /CNW/ - It's that time of year again: The lawnmowers are roaring, gardens are being planted, little league has begun and kids are out riding their bikes. All are signs that summer weather has arrived, and Ontario's doctors want to remind people to practice sun safety, especially when it comes to children.

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure and sunburns are major contributors to skin cancer. Melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers account for more diagnoses of cancer than lung, breast, and prostate combined. To ensure you and your family are protected follow these simple tips:

• Wear broad-brimmed hats or use sun umbrellas, and try to stay in the shade to avoid direct sun, especially in the middle of the day;
• Dress in light, loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts or long pants to protect skin;
• Remember to apply sunscreen liberally and often. In general, SPF 30 is a good all-purpose sunscreen for an active day outside.

Quotes:

"Whether you're playing a baseball game, having a family picnic or spending a day on the water, it's important to practice sun safety and protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Ontario's doctors want to encourage people to get outside and get active, just remember to apply sunscreen regularly and don't stay in the sun for an extended period of time." Dr. Scott Wooder, President Ontario Medical Association

"The fact is that UV exposure, whether it is from natural sun or tanning beds, is a proven carcinogen that contributes to the development of skin cancer including the deadliest form, melanoma. As dermatologists we recognize that it can be difficult to avoid the sun especially during the summer months but remembering to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with coverage for both UVA and UVB will certainly better protect the skin and reduce risk." Dr. Samir Gupta, Chair of the OMA's Dermatology Section

Ontario's doctors want to remind people about the importance of protecting your skin. Since sunscreen information can be confusing, a downloadable fact-sheet about sunscreen protection and SPF is available here: https://www.oma.org/Resources/Documents/SunSafetyFactSheet.pdf

SOURCE: Ontario Medical Association

OMA Media Relations at 416.340.2862 or toll-free at 1.800.268.7215, ext. 286
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