Central Oregon has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the country, thanks to our abundant sunshine and high altitude.
Here’s what you can do to protect your kids:
- Minimize summer sun exposure between 10 a.m.- 2:00 p.m
- Dress your kids in a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and UV protective clothing. Even while swimming, have them wear a UV swim shirt
- Apply sunscreen that provides UVB and UVA protection with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes BEFORE sun expose and reapply after swimming or excessive sweating
- Seek shake whenever possible
- No tan is a good tan
- Avoid tanning beds
Facts about skin cancer and children’s risk factors:
- Approximately 40-60% of sun exposure occurs before the age of 20 yrs.
- Sunburns can happen within 15 minutes of being in the sun, but redness and discomfort may not be notices until a few hours later
- Melanoma accounts for approximately 7% of all cancers diagnosed in 15-19 yr. olds
