Safety tips for children in the sun
The following steps can be taken to avoid cancer due to sunburn:
POLOKWANE – Cancer comes in many forms and a local doctor in the city advises that it is best to learn how to implement precautionary measures against the disease from a young age.
Dr Lediba Ledwaba spoke to BONUS about the importance of fighting and preventing skin cancer, especially in the warmer months and over holidays when people tend to spend more time outdoors and in the sun.
He said teaching children to be cancer- and sun-wise from an early age will enable them to become responsible adults who will continue the trend and teach their children the same values, creating a cancer- and sun-wise generation.
He said the following steps can be taken to avoid cancer due to sunburn:
• Limit outdoor playtime between 10:00 and 16:00. Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Even on cloudy or cooler days, ultraviolet (UV) rays remain strong.
• Apply sunscreen properly. Generously apply sunscreen 30 minutes before your child goes out in the sun.
• Cover up. Wearing protective clothing and hats is one of the most important ways of warding off UV damage.
• Keep watch on medications. Some medications increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so make sure to ask your doctor whether your child may be at risk.
• Set a good example for your kids. If your children see you following sun-safety rules, they’ll take them for granted and follow suit.
