Enjoying sunny days has its advantages. But there are disadvantages too. July is Ultraviolet (UV) Protection Month. Light from the sun can be harmful. UV rays can cause cancer, known as melanoma. Melanoma of the skin is the sixth most common cancer in Virginia. Below are some suggestions of how to protect you and your family.
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher
- Find shade during the hottest parts of the day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
- Wear clothing to cover your skin
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) works with the Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia. The partnership focuses on protecting Virginians from skin cancer. Together, we share information and other resources to support
- summer camps, and
- parks and recreation settings.
The resources we provide include:
- sunscreen dispensers,
- sunscreen refills,
- educational posters, and
- sample sun safety policy guidance for parks and recreation settings.
Please visit the Cancer Coalition’s website for more information and to order the Sun Safety Schools Toolkit.
- For more information about cancer in Virginia, visit VDH’s Cancer Prevention Programs webpage.
- For more information about skin cancer, visit the CDC’s Sun Safety Facts webpage.