May 23 marks National Don't Fry Day, an annual reminder of the risks associated with overexposure to the sun and the importance of sun safety for all Canadians.
In Saskatchewan alone, approximately 4,000 cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year, including more than 300 cases of melanoma, according to Sun Smart Saskatchewan. While anyone can develop skin cancer, the risk is higher for individuals with fair or freckled skin, a large number of moles, or those who use tanning beds.
Melanoma is considered the most dangerous form of skin cancer due to its tendency to spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, liver, brain and bones. Though it accounts for only four per cent of skin cancer cases worldwide, melanoma is responsible for 80 per cent of skin cancer-related deaths.
The Government of Saskatchewan encourages Canadians to take precautions when the UV Index is 3 or higher. Recommended sun safety measures include wearing light coloured, breathable clothing, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and staying hydrated by drinking cool fluids before feeling thirsty.
Sunburn symptoms typically include red, warm, or sensitive skin, and in some cases may develop into blisters or peeling within hours or days. More serious conditions, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, can present as chills, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue. Children, in particular, may become irritable or unusually tired.
Health officials advise that anyone showing signs of sun overexposure should be moved out of direct sunlight and treated with a cool (not cold) shower or bath, or with cool compresses applied throughout the day.
Experts emphasize that prevention remains the most effective treatment for sunburn and skin cancer. Although many cases of skin cancer appear in adulthood, the damage often begins much earlier.
Protecting both adults and children from harmful UV rays is a crucial step in reducing future risk. Find more tips and information at the Government of Canada's website.