Health Tips for October 7

Health Tip: Reduce Your Risk of Skin Cancer

The sun's rays may boost your mood, but they also contain harmful ultraviolet rays that can damage your skin and lead to skin cancer. The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to help reduce your risk: Stay out of the sun, particularly when it's strongest, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wear sunscreen. Cover your skin with long shirts and pants, and wear wide hats. At least once a month, inspect your skin for early warning signs of skin cancer, such as suspicious-looking moles. If you see something that's you're not sure about, talk with your doctor. Avoid tanning beds or sunlamps. Health Tip: Risk Factors for Skin Cancer People who have fair skin -- or who are otherwise more susceptible to sunburn -- are at increased risk for skin cancer. The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists these other common risk factors for skin cancer: Having a lot of freckles or moles. Having blue, gray or green eyes. Having blond or red hair. Having had many severe sunburns early in life. Having a family history of skin cancer. Being out in the sun frequently for long periods. Consistent exposure to the sun without use of sunscreen.