UV Awareness Month: Keeping Your Eyes and Skin Safe with Monroe Regional Hospital
Each year, July serves as a national reminder to stay safe in the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause serious health issues – from skin cancer to eye damage- but most of it is preventable with simple daily habits.
What Are UV Rays?
Ultraviolet radiation comes from the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds. There are two types:
- UVA: Penetrates deep into skin and causes premature aging (wrinkles and sunspots)
- UVB: Damages the outer layers of skin and causes sunburn; strongly linked to skin cancer
UV Rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and intensity increases with elevation, reflective surfaces (water or snow), and proximity to the equator.
Health Risks of UV Exposure:
- Skin Damage
- Sunburn
- Photoaging
- Actinic keratosis
- Skin cancer
- Eye damage
- Immune System Suppression
Who’s Most at Risk?
While everyone is vulnerable to UV damage, certain groups should be extra cautious
- Children and teens – early UV exposure significantly raises lifelong cancer risk
- Fair-skinned individuals – less melanin = less natural UV protection
- Outdoor workers or athletes
- Those who use tanning beds
Sun Protection: What Works
- Using Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
- SPF 30 or higher is recommended for daily use
- Apply 15-30 minutes before sun exposure
- Reapply every 2 hour or after swimming/sweating
- Wear Protective Clothing
- Seek Shade
- Especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Avoid Tanning beds
- They emit UV radiation up to 15 times stronger than the sun
Monroe Regional Hospital Cares About Your Skin Health
At Monroe Regional Hospital, we believe prevention is the best protection. During UV Safety Awareness Month, we encourage our community to take the basic steps to shield their skin and eyes from harmful UV exposure. We offer skin cancer screening and dermatology referrals as well as education on sun safety practices. Call us today to schedule a skin check or to speak with a provider about your needs: https://monroeregionalhospital.com/