The Baby Kottage

The first day of summer this year is June 21. This means that a lot of people will be spending more time outside. It's a great time to work on the garden or head to the beach! But it is also the time for staying safe while in the sun. Here are are few tips to stay sun safe year-round:

Stay in the shade during the sun's peak hours (10:00am-4:00pm)

Wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.

Cover up with clothing, accessorize with a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

Get vitamin D through a healthy diet or vitamin supplements.

Keep newborns out of the sun, as much as possible. Sunscreens can be used on babies over the age of six months.

Have a doctor examine you at least once a year.

Avoid sun tanning and do not burn! One sunburn that leads to blistering can double your chance at getting melanoma.

Use sunscreen even when driving, or inside with windows open, as the sun's rays can come through the windows.

Use sunscreen even in winter, snow and ice reflect the sun, doubling your chance of burning.

You should do a monthly exam on your skin to ensure that you do not develop any spots or moles on the skin. If you do, they could be potentially dangerous. Spots are usually in brown in color and change color over time. Normal moles and freckles do not change color over time, like those that can become a problem. The size of the mole is also a warning sign. Any new mole that grows in size should be checked out by a dermatologist. A mole that was once flat, but grows in elevation, also should be checked out by a doctor. Be sure to look at the skin surrounding the mole, as it may be red or swelling. Be observant for any puss, or bleeding from the mole, as these are also signs of possible cancer. If you notice any itching, pain or other sensation around the area, be sure to tell your physician. Itching is a common early symptom of cancer and should be reported immediately. To do your monthly exam, use a full length mirror and an addition mirror to see your backside, and a stool. You may also ask your spouse or friend to help you look for any new moles or spots. For children under the age of 10, a parent should conduct the exam.

First, look on your face and scalp. You may want to use a hair dyer to move hair out of the way. Go slowly and try to go over every possible hiding spot, like behind the ears. Next, examine your hands and arms, do not forget to check under your arms as well. After this, check your chest and torso, move any excessive skin that may be a hiding spot for moles. Gently lift the breast and look for any unusual spots. Move along to your back side, and use the additional mirror to assist you in looking for new moles. After you have checked your back, sit down on the stool and examine your legs, feet and genitals (with the use of the mirror). If you do find anything suspicious, make an appointment with a physician immediately. If they suspect that you may have cancer, they will be able to refer you to a specialist.

If you would like more information, visit the Center of Disease Control at http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/nscpep/index.htm or National Cancer Institute at http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/melanoma.

Rosemary E. King is a Navy wife and mother to five children, and expecting her sixth in November 2008.

Zents Sun Concreta, as seen in Oprah’s Magazine!

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