Too much exposure to the sun and its ultraviolet rays can lead to skin cancer, eye damage and other health problems.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says UV rays can:
- Lead to different types of skin cancer, including the most serious, melanoma.
- Cause what looks like early aging and other changes in the skin's appearance.
- Damage the eyes, including causing cataracts.
- Suppress the immune system, resulting in reduced ability to fight off illness.
Health Tip: Protect Newborns From the Sun
A newborn's sensitive skin is particularly vulnerable to sunburn, so parents should be extra cautious.
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these suggestions to prevent sunburn in babies less than six months:
- Avoid sun exposure as much as possible.
- Dress baby in a lightweight, long-sleeved top and long pants.
- Put baby in a wide-brimmed hat to shield the face.
- If you can't keep baby out of the sun, apply a small bit of sunscreen to the face and the backs of baby's hands.
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