 |
|
|||||
|
||||||
|
SUMMER Wisconsinites anxiously await the clear skies of summer and, unfortunately, often overexpose themselves to the sun and heat. Many of us think suntans are a sign of good health, but according to the World Health Organization (WHO), a suntan is “merely a sign of UV damage and represents the skin's defense to prevent further harm.” Sun exposure can benefit human beings because it increases Vitamin D production. A recent study noted a variety of cancers could actually be limited with 15 minutes of daily sun exposure. But, excessive sun exposure places one at risk for a variety of skin cancers. Malignant melanoma is a very aggressive skin cancer that metastasizes to other body organs and has a high mortality rate if not detected early. Currently, there are between 2 and 3 million non-melanoma skin cancers and 132,000 malignant melanomas reported globally each year, according to WHO. It’s important to limit sun exposure and to apply and reapply 30 to 45 Sun Protection Factor (SPF) sunscreen several times per day. Also, wear protective clothing and avoid periods of peak sunlight exposure between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children are particularly susceptible to UV radiation because their skin is thinner and more sensitive, they like to play outside and they are unaware of UV risks. Parents take note—damage from excessive sun exposure and sunburn as a child can lead to higher rates of melanoma as an adult. Set a healthy example for your children. Heat exhaustion with dehydration is another common heat-related complaint. When humidity and temperature are high, it is essential to remain cool and well hydrated. Drinking water and sport drinks will help prevent heat exhaustion. Avoid drinking alcohol during excessive heat and humidity because alcohol is a diuretic that causes one to excrete more fluid through urination. Recently, I was playing golf on a 90-degree afternoon. As always, I walked the course because I enjoy the exercise. (If you have ever seen me play, it’s apparent that I get a lot of exercise—from one side of the fairway to the next, through the woods, the water and eventually the green!) On this particular day, I realized that although I had drunk 8 bottles of water while on the course, I never went to the bathroom. I probably would have suffered from heat exhaustion had I not kept myself well hydrated. Heat stroke is rare, but I usually treat a few cases every summer. Heat stroke is an emergency because the body does not sweat and the body temperature continues to rise. One must act quickly to cool the body. Prescribed medications can often contribute to heat stroke, so consult with your health care provider about this issue if you are on medication. Good common sense and preparation will lead to an enjoyable summer. Keep yourself well hydrated with water and sport drinks, plan activities around peak heat and sun exposure times, wear protective clothing and sunscreen, and pass your good health habits to your children. |
|
||||
|
||||||
|
||||||
