National Health Observances
National Health Observance Toolkit - July
UV Safety Month
Sponsor: American Academy of Ophthalmology 
UV Safety Month is a great time to spread the message of sun, fun, and UV safety to your community. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main cause of skin cancer. UV rays can also damage your eyes.
Anyone can get skin cancer, but the risk is greatest for people with:
- White or light-colored skin with freckles
- Blond or red hair
- Blue or green eyes
You can take these steps to help prevent skin cancer:
- Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
- Cover up with long sleeves and a hat.
- Check your skin regularly for any changes.
Sample Announcement | Sample Tweets | E-cards | Web Badges | Get Involved | Related Tools on healthfinder.gov | Resources
Get the Word Out
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Sample Media and/or Newsletter or Listserv Announcement |
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Q. What is the main cause of skin cancer? Warmer weather often means being outside more. When it comes to sun, be sure to take care of your skin: http://1.usa.gov/ikEvE5. Be cool. Wear your shades. UV rays can hurt your eyes. Get more tips for healthy eyes: http://1.usa.gov/lgkLhw. Did you know? Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. Learn how to protect your skin: http://1.usa.gov/ioGz4J. Calculate your risk. Free tool to see how at-risk you may be for skin cancer: http://bit.ly/lxiRDE. |
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Web Badge |
Get Involved
Take action to raise awareness about UV Safety and skin cancer prevention.
- Host a tree-planting event. Ask your organization’s leaders to plant trees around the building for members to enjoy the outdoors while staying in the shade. Consider teaming up with local environmental organizations for cross-promotion.
- Post skin safety tips near major entrances for members of your organization to read before stepping out into the sun.
- Send a memo with vacation tips to your members. Encourage them to bring sunscreen, wear hats, and to avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Ask a health professional (a local dermatologist, registered nurse, public health official, etc.) to demonstrate how to check skin regularly for skin-cancer warning signs.
- Host an indoor family health fair with recreational activities.
Adapted from the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Contact the American Academy of Ophthalmology at eyemd@aao.org for more information and materials.
Related Tools on healthfinder.gov
Personal Health Tools
More Information (Health A-Z)
Quick Guide to Healthy Living
Resources
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
UV Safety Month Sponsor - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Choose Your Cover, Skin Cancer Prevention campaign
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Skin Cancer
- National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging, Information Center, AgePage: Skin Care and Aging
- National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Skin Cancer Home Page
- Occupational Health and Safety Administration, Protecting Yourself in the Sun
- Swim Safely
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, SunWise Kids School Program
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