JACKSON – The Mississippi Department of Health is reminding residents to take precautions against sun exposure and extreme heat as temperatures rise.
According to the department, exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun is the most serious environmental risk factor for skin and lip cancer. Health officials said even a few serious sunburns can double a person’s lifetime risk of cancer.
Serious sunburns, especially during childhood and adolescence, can also double the risk of developing malignant melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer, according to the Mississippi Department of Health.
Health officials said unprotected skin can be damaged by UV rays in as little as 15 minutes, though it can take up to 12 hours for the full effects of sun exposure to appear.
The department encourages adults and children to use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher that provides UVA and UVB protection. Sunscreen should be applied about 30 minutes before going outside, and people should check expiration dates before using last year’s sunscreen.
Residents are also encouraged to seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., wear protective clothing, use wide-brimmed hats and wear sunglasses that block as close to 100% of UVA and UVB rays as possible.
The department also warned that prolonged high temperatures can cause serious illness or death. Older adults, children and people with certain medical conditions, including heart disease, are at higher risk. Health officials said even young, healthy people can become ill if they take part in strenuous activities during hot weather.
To reduce heat-related risks, residents are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
Health officials said recognizing symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and responding quickly is essential.
