SE Texas Times

July is designated as National Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Month. According to the American Cancer Society, individuals with a high level of exposure to UV rays from the sun have an increased risk of skin cancer, which is the most prevalent type of cancer in the country. It is important to note that despite these statistics, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer and can be avoided by reducing one’s exposure to UV radiation. As such, I would like to share some important information on the necessary precautions to take to safeguard against the damaging effects of UV radiation this summer as recommended by the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

One of the most important ways to protect oneself from overexposure to UV radiation is to understand the risks. While the sun emits UV rays no matter the season, exposure is greatest during the summer months, which also coincides with a time of increased outdoor activity for most people. As one of the most popular tourism destinations in the state, this is especially true in our area as both locals and visitors alike spend more time outside participating in recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming. It is also important to note that the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. As such, HHS recommends seeking shade when possible during these hours to limit exposure.

Moreover, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the strength of the sun’s UV rays can vary from day to day due to many factors such as changes in weather. Limiting outdoor activity during days when the UV Index forecast is high can also help reduce one’s chance of overexposure. You can check the UV Index forecast daily by visiting Sun Safety – The UV Index.

In addition to understanding your risk of exposure to UV radiation, another way to reduce instances of skin cancer is by wearing protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has also stated that UV radiation is linked to many common vision issues such as cataracts. To protect against damage from UV radiation, both CDC and HHS recommend wearing broad-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses.

According to American Cancer Society, wearing sunscreen is one of the most important precautionary measures in avoiding overexposure to harmful UV rays. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends generously applying broad-spectrum sunscreen covering all exposed skin, which will help protect against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. The FDA also recommends using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) value of at least fifteen. Sunscreen should be generously applied throughout the day, especially after swimming and sweating.

This summer, I hope you will all join me in promoting UV safety by following these recommendations outlined above. To learn more about preventing overexposure to UV radiation, please visit HHS July UV Safety Month information or Fun and Breezy – Summer Sun Safety Tips websites. To learn more about skin cancer including risk factors and early detection techniques please visit American Cancer Society.

If you have questions regarding any information mentioned in this week’s article do not hesitate calling my Capitol or District Office for assistance with questions concerns or comments at Capitol Office 512-463-0672; District Office 361-949-4603.

– State Representative Todd Hunter District 32

Rep Hunter represents Aransas County Nueces County Part He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672