By James McGuinness, M.D.
It’s July and summer is in full swing: Fourth of July parades, fireworks, barbecues, picnics, swimming and those long days with extended sunlight.
July is noted for many significant events including Independence Day, National U.S. Postage Stamp Day, National Hot Dog Day and National Ice Cream Day. National New Jersey Day is July 27, and National Milk Chocolate Day and National Parents’ Day are the fourth Sunday of the month.
Sun protection is important all year round. Whether you’re working in the yard, watching a ballgame or taking an afternoon walk, make sun safety an everyday habit, so you can avoid getting a sunburn and lower your chance of getting skin cancer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays causes most cases of melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer. To lower your skin cancer risk, protect your skin from the sun and avoid indoor tanning.
Summer is full of outdoor activities. Most of us put sunscreen on ourselves and our family members when we go to the pool or the beach. Actually, we should protect our skin with more than just sunscreen anytime we are outside. Here are some suggestions regarding what to use: a lightweight long-sleeved shirt or cover-up; a hat with a wide brim that shades your face, head, ears and neck; sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays; sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and both UVA and UVB (broad spectrum) protection. Do not forget to stay in the shade, especially during the late morning through mid-afternoon hours. If you can’t stay in the shade, wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants to protect your skin. Remember to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours and after swimming, sweating or toweling off.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The two most common types of skin cancer – basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas – are highly curable but can be disfiguring and costly to treat. Melanoma, the third most common skin cancer, is more dangerous and causes the most deaths. The majority of cases of these three types of skin cancer are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.
Many people are more active in the warm summer months so the number of accidents and injuries may increase. Think twice and take precautions before getting up on a ladder; wear a helmet and protective gear when biking or playing outdoor sports.
Heat stroke is another risk. When you are exposed to prolonged high temperatures or engage in too much physical exertion, your body is at risk of overheating. Don’t overdo it. Fever, cramps, nausea and weakness are signs that you need immediate care.
Food poisoning and foodborne illnesses peak in summer. Bacteria multiply more quickly in the heat; safe food handling is trickier when cooking outdoors. Rule of thumb: Avoid food that has been sitting out for more than one hour.
Keep in mind that the summer can create some of our best memories of the year. Enjoy your summer, be safe and stay healthy.
The natural healing force in each one of us is the greatest force in getting well. – Hippocrates
James McGuinness, M.D., is a family physician in Middletown and is the medical director of the Parker Family Health Center in Red Bank.
