Athletes should remember safety in the sun

Sports enthusiasts at very level take special safety precautions to prevent sports related injuries. A soccer player would never go onto the field without his or her shin guards and a baseball player would never go to bat without a helmet. That is why it is important to teach athletes another one of the most important and life saving precautions: Sunscreen.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 1 million new cases diagnosed every year. Studies have confirmed that sun exposure is responsible for the development of at least two thirds of all melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

To prevent skin cancer, sports enthusiasts and their fans should follow these sun precautions from the American Academy of Dermatology:

•The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, limit your outdoor activities during this time.

•Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15.

•Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors, even on cloudy days.

•Wear protective, tightly woven clothing, such as long-sleeved shirt and pants.

•Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when outdoors.

•Stay in the shade whenever possible.

•Avoid reflective surfaces which can reflect up to 85 percent of the sun’s damaging rays.

•Protect children. Minimize sun exposure and apply sunscreen to children aged 6 months and older.

•No shadow; seek the shade. If your shadow is shorter than you are, you’re likely to sunburn.

•Avoid tanning beds.

For more information, contact the American Academy of Dermatology at (888) 462-DERM or visit www.aad.org.