Sunny Day Blues
Living in the Sun Belt? Better pull out the baby burkhas.
Strong new evidence suggests overall sun exposure in childhood, not just burns, is a big factor in the later development of deadly skin cancer.
Traditionally, the accusatory fingers have always been pointed at tan-and-burn-causing UVB rays -- the stuff blocked by SPF-containing sunscreens. Now it turns out the UVA rays are bad for you too. Even more alarming:
Where you live, not the every-so-often beach vacation, determines most of your UV exposure -- that lunchtime stroll, children's school recess or ball practice. UVA can even penetrate window glass.
Here's a handy index so you can check just how much sun trouble you're in. As for the promise of many sunscreens that they provide "broad spectrum" protection against UVA rays:
The term broad-spectrum "means nothing. Anybody can make that claim," says a frustrated Dr. Darrell Rigel of New York University.
So until your kids are 20, doctors are now recommending that you pull down the shades and put on the TV. It's the only safe thing to do.
Kids' sun exposure may be key to deadly cancer [MSNBC]
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