Summer is here, and with it comes gardening, walking, biking, and simply enjoying the warmth of the sun. However, humans require protection from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. One alarming fact is that harmful or pre-cancerous cells, which lead to skin cancer, develop within the first 20 years of life. So ensure children are well protected. Adopt the “slip, slap, and slop” mantra. “Slip” into long-sleeved shirts and long pants, “slap” on a wide-brimmed hat, and “slop” on the sunscreen. Use a product with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or greater that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Check the best before date on your sunscreen. If it was frozen during the winter, discard it and purchase new. Limit outdoor activities to later in the day. Monitor freckles and moles for changes in size or colour. Consult your physician if changes are noted.

Doug Treloar, Physiotherapist, Physiofirstclinic.ca