Upon the opening of the country's swimming season, the ICA has called upon the general population to be "Sun Smart" and adhere to strict safety guidelines geared towards the entire population, especially children and adults in high-risk groups.
Who is at high risk?
Fair-skinned people who burn easily.
People with many sunspots and/or moles.
Babies, children and the elderly.
People who work and pursue hobbies outdoors.
Swimmers, surfers and divers.
People with a family history of skin cancer.
Patients taking medications that increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun's rays.
Organ transplant recipients who regularly take medications that suppress the immune system.
As was proven in a research study conducted at the University of Colorado in Denver and published in the March 2012 edition of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) light during childhood can result in significant genetic damage to the skin, and consequently, melanoma. Those who are responsible for the children should therefore closely follow the following safety guidelines every time they take the kids outside. It is also important to note that babies up to the age of 6 months should not be exposed to the sun at all and suncreen should therefore not be applied to their skin.
ICA "Sun Smart" Tips:
Seek shade whenever possible, however it should be kept in mind that UV rays are also reflected off the sand and/or water on the beach or at the swimming pool.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat in the sun that covers the face, eyes and neck.
Never go out without your sunglasses that filter out harmful UV rays.
See to wearing the proper clothing; it is advised to wear clothing that covers and protects the entire body (a long-sleeved shirt and pants).
Make sure you go outdoors when it is safe to avoid being in the sun during peak hours: between 10.00 and 16.00.
Apply a double coat of sunscreen lotion with an SPF of at least 30 or higher.
Take plenty of liquids with you, as the body perspires and dehydrates in hot weather.
If you have any questions, seek any further information, or require informational materials free of charge, please visit our website on the following link: http://en.cancer.org.il/ or contact:
Lili Lev Biller
Committees and Projects Coordinator
Telephone: +972-3-571.95.74
E-Mail: lilib@cancer.org.il