There are so many cancers that we are completely incapable of trying to prevent, that when there is one we have information on, we should do whatever we can to follow the rules. This is the case when it comes to skin cancer. Teen Screen is an organization that focuses on educating “high school athletic teams about the risk of skin cancer and encouraging teams to make sunscreen part of team equipment.” When there is awareness, it is much easier to encourage teenagers to take the simple step of using sunscreen.
Everyone should be using sun screen throughout the year. But for some reason, teenagers often think that they are going to live forever and also are not fully aware of the harsh reality that cancer knows no bounds – it can impact anyone at any age. With a simple lesson in the ease of applying sunscreen, while being educated on the horrors of skin cancer, these teenagers are fast learning important preventive measures that are easy to implement.
Covering Up with Sunscreen
So make sure you use sunscreen. Remember that daylight hours are crucial, especially between 10 and 4 daylight savings time (or 9 to 3, regular time) are “the most hazardous for UV exposure in the continental United States.” Of course seasons are important since late spring and early summer have the most UV rays. But this doesn’t mean you don’t need to use sunscreen on a cloudy day as well.
Other Skin Protection Methods
Teen Screen also focuses on other skin protection methods. While it is essential to wear sunscreen, there are other ways of covering up too, like wearing clothes that do not expose any body parts to UV rays. As well, you should always look for shade (especially in the heat of the day) and wearing a hat with a large brim will protect your neck, ears, head and face. Sunglasses shouldn’t just be for show; you should get a pair that “wrap around” as these will block nearly 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. And when it comes to sunscreen, opt for 15 or higher, with a brand that offers protection against BOTH UVA and UVB.
