National Sun Awareness Week is June 8-14, 2009

This summer and year-round, practise sun safety and take steps to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In celebration of National Sun Awareness Week (June 8 to 14) the Canadian Cancer Society is working with the Canadian Dermatology Association to raise awareness of skin cancer and the importance of sun safety.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Canada, and exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or artificial tanning equipment can increase one’s risk of developing skin cancer.

In 2009, an estimated 80,100 Canadians will be diagnosed with skin cancer (5,000 of which are melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer).

Sun safety quiz

How much do you know about SunSense?

Artificial tanning

Following these SunSense guidelines will help you protect yourself and your family from the sun.

Reduce exposure to the sun when its rays are most intense between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. or when the UV Index is 3 or more.
Enjoy places that include shade, and in open areas such as beaches, bring an umbrella to create your own shade.
Slip on lightweight, tightly woven, loose-fitting clothing to cover your arms and legs.
Slap on a wide-brimmed hat that covers your head, face, ears and neck. Hats without a wide brim, such as baseball caps, do not give enough protection.
Wear sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection.
Slop on a sunscreen with SPF #15 or higher – if you will be outside for most of the day, use SPF #30.
Apply sunscreen generously and follow the instructions on the sunscreen label for directions on reapplication.
In your sun protection plan, cover up, wearing a hat and sunglasses, along with sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s ray’s.
Keep babies out of the direct sun.

Vitamin D and the sun

Sunlight is one source of Vitamin D and research has shown that it has known health benefits, including growing evidence about the vitamin’s role in reducing the risk of some cancers, such as colorectal cancer. Click here to learn more.

Last modified on: 13 December 2009