Health Office

 

 

Sun safety and Skin Cancer

 

In the early part of the 20th century, lifetime risk of skin cancer was 1 in 1500.  In the year 2000, the risk became 1 in 5 for Americans.  A major reason for this increase is the depletion of the ozone layer. The ozone layer shields the earth from harmful UV radiation. Ozone depletion,  weather, and the seasons cause different amounts of UV radiation to reach  the earth. The UV Index tells you how much. It predicts the   UV levels on a 1-11+ scale that helps you decide what to do to be safe in  the sun. You can find out what the UV Index forecast is for Cairo each day now on the CAC homepage.  Notice that most days it is “Very High”.

Researchers have said that  90% of all types of skin cancers are linked to sun exposure before the age of 18.    In addition to skin cancer risks, sun exposure can also cause immune system suppression.  Sun exposure also leads to cataracts and eye damage.  The Bedouin here in Egypt have an alarmingly high rate of cataracts from the sun.

What follows is a description of each UV Index level from the EPA, and tips to help you  avoid harmful exposure to UV radiation based on each number. 

UV Index scale

2 or less: Low

A UV Index reading of 2 or less means low danger from the sun's  UV rays for the average person:

  • Wear sunglasses on bright days. In winter, reflection off snow  can nearly double UV strength.
  • If you burn easily, cover up and use sunscreen.

Look Out Below

Snow and water can reflect the sun's rays. Skiers and swimmers  should take special care. Wear sunglasses or goggles, and apply  sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Remember to protect areas  that could be exposed to UV rays by the sun's reflection, including  under the chin and nose.

3 - 5: Moderate

A UV Index reading of 3 to 5 means moderate risk of harm from  unprotected sun exposure.

  • Take precautions, such as covering up, if you will be outside.
  • Stay in shade near midday when the sun is strongest.

Me and My Shadow

An easy way to tell how much UV exposure you are getting is to  look for your shadow:

  • If your shadow is taller than you are (in the early morning  and late afternoon), your UV exposure is likely to be low.
  • If your shadow is shorter than you are (around midday), you  are being exposed to high levels of UV radiation. Seek shade  and protect your skin and eyes.

6 - 7: High

A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 means high risk of harm from unprotected  sun exposure. Apply a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15. Wear  a wide-brim hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes.

  • Protection against sunburn is needed.
  • Reduce time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.

Made in the Shades

Wearing sunglasses protects the lids of your eyes as well as the  lens.

8 - 10: Very High

A UV Index reading of 8 to 10 means very high risk of harm from  unprotected sun exposure. Minimize sun exposure during midday hours,  from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Protect yourself by liberally applying a  sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Wear protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect the eyes.

  • Take extra precautions. Unprotected skin will be damaged and  can burn quickly.  In this range,  permanent damage can occur in minutes.
  • Minimize sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Otherwise,  seek shade, cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.

11+: Extreme

A UV Index reading of 11 or higher means extreme risk of harm from unprotected  sun exposure. Try to avoid sun exposure during midday hours, from 10 a.m.  to 4 p.m. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 liberally every 2 hours.

  • Take all precautions. Unprotected skin can be damaged immediately.. Beachgoers  should know that white sand and other bright surfaces reflect UV and will  increase UV exposure.
  • Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Seek shade, cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.