July is recognized as Ultraviolet Safety Month, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our eyes and skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. This month serves as a reminder of the link between excessive UV exposure and cancers affecting the eyes, lips, and skin. Officials use this time to educate the public on various protective methods:
- Staying in the shade, especially during peak hours of 10AM – 4PM
- Protecting skin with clothing that covers arms and legs
- Wearing a hat to shield your head, face, and neck
- Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays to protect eyes and surrounding skin
- Using sunscreen on any exposed skin not covered by clothing
What you don’t know CAN hurt you
- 49% of U.S. adults don’t know that UV exposure increases the likelihood of cataract formation
- 43% don’t know that UV exposure can cause cancer of the eye or eyelid
- 36% don’t know that eyes can be sunburned
Web Links:
- Be Safe in the Sun (American Cancer Society)
- Skin Cancer: Sun Safety (CDC)
- Sunscreen FAQs (American Academy of Dermatology Association)
- Tips to Stay Safe in the Sun: From Sunscreen to Sunglasses (FDA)
Library Links:
- Overview of the Effects of Sunlight (Merck Manual: Professional Edition)
- Tanning and UV Radiation (Gale: Health & Wellness—Topic Page)
Videos: