Enjoy the sun, but stay safe

Although summer is a great time to go out and have fun, remember to protect yourself and your family from the harmful effects of exposure to sunshine. This could prevent much of the disease burden due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which includes deaths and illness from a range of causes, including cancer. Protective measures are easy to take, and include the following.

• Limit time in the midday sun.
• Use shade wisely: seek it when UV rays are most intense.
• Wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses.
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, with a protection factor of 30 or more.
• Avoid sunlamps and tanning parlours. WHO recommends that people under the age of 18 do not use them at all.
• Know the UV index: when it predicts radiation levels of 3 (moderate) or above, take sun-safety measures.
• Protect children from the sun.