Articles
Cancer prevention: 7 tips to reduce your risk
5. Get immunized
Content
1. Don't use tobacco
2. Eat a healthy diet
3. Maintain a healthy weight and be physically active
4. Protect yourself from the sun
5. Get vaccinated
6. Avoid risky behaviors
7. Get regular medical care
4. Protect yourself from the sun
Skin cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer — and one of the most preventable. Try these tips:
- Avoid midday sun. Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are strongest.
- Stay in the shade. When you're outdoors, stay in the shade as much as possible. Sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat help, too.
- Cover exposed areas. Wear tightly woven, loose fitting clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible. Opt for bright or dark colors, which reflect more ultraviolet radiation than do pastels or bleached cotton.
- Don't skimp on sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you're swimming or perspiring.
- Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps. These are just as damaging as natural sunlight.
