July - UV Safety Month
The skin is the body's largest organ. It protects against heat, sunlight, injury, and infection. Yet, some of us don't consider the necessity of protecting our skin.  The need to protect your skin from the sun has become very clear over the year, linking overexposure to skin cancer. Harmful ultraviolet rays (UV rays) from the sun and tanning beds can also cause damage to your eyes, immune system, age spots, wrinkles and leathery skin. Who wants leathery skin? Not ME!
Steps to protect your skin:
  • Wear proper clothing to protect your skin from harmful sun ultraviolet rays.
  • Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
  • Stay out of the sun between the hours of 10 am to 4pm, when the ultraviolet index is the highest.
  • Reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating.
  • Use caution around areas with a reflective surface like pool water or snow. This reflection makes the UV rays worst.
  • Protect your eyes, UV rays can damage your vision. Wear sunglasses while outside in a sunny area.
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Doctors use the "ABCDE's" acronym as a tool to diagnose possible melanomas. When using your body map, take into consideration your ABCDE's. 
A) Asymmetry
B) Border irregular
C) Color varied
D)Diameter larger 
E) Evolution - the mole has changed over time.
If you notice any symptoms of skin cancer, tell your parents to schedule a doctors appointment!
Source: Federal Occupational Health