Local Physicians Say Practice Sun Safety During 4th of July Holiday Festivities

July 3, 2012 - PRLog -- "Some sun exposure is good for all of us since it helps elevate our Vitamin D levels.  But spending long hours in the sun can cause serious skin damage like skin cancer," said Dr. Phong Nguyen, director of emergency services at Redlands Community Hospital.  "It's important for adults and the elderly to know that repeated unprotected exposure to the sun and ultra violet rays will result in premature aging and sagging skin."

Skin cancer is the one of most common form of cancer in the United States with an estimated 3.5 million cases of cell skin cancer diagnosed each year. Statistics may be sobering but skin cancer is actually one of the most preventable forms of cancer if properly treated.

       Children who are exposed to even a few serious burns can increase their risk for skin cancer. Mothers are advised to apply SPF 15 with UVA and UVB protection about 30 minutes prior to being out in the sun. For the best protection, generously apply sun block on the nose, tips of the ears and the tops of the feet. Shirts, hats, sunglasses and shade are other ways you can protect your children from the sun.

Nothing can completely undo sun damage, although the skin can sometimes repair itself. It's important to begin protecting yourself to prevent sun - related skin problems by following these simple methods:

Apply sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 30 or greater 30 minutes prior to being exposed to the sun
. Choose cosmetic products and contact lenses that offer UV protection
. Wear sunglass with total UV protection
. Wear hats, long sleeved shirts and pants
. Avoid direct sunlight during peak UV radiation hours between 10:00am to 3:00pm
. Monitor any existing growths and notice any changes to new growths
. Avoid tanning beds.

For more information about Redlands Community Hospital, please visit
www.redlandshospital.org.

Redlands Community Hospital is a not-for-profit, stand-alone hospital.

About Redlands Community Hospital
Redlands Community Hospital has been providing healthcare to people of all ages throughout our community for more than 100 years. Founded in 1904 on Nordina Street, the hospital has relocated and grown in response to our area's growth and advancements in medical technology. In the 1920s, local citizens, along with Mr. and Mrs. E.M. Cope, donated 17 acres of land to build a new hospital.