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DANGERS FROM THE SUN WHILE
ABROAD
Over-exposure to the sun can bring not only severe sunburn but also a risk
of heatstroke, dehydration and cancer of the skin.
- The farther south towards the Equator the holiday venue, the greater the
effect of the sun's rays.
- Adverse effects from the sun are greatest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. High
reflection on the beach by the waterside also increases the sun's effects.
- Graded exposure for a short time in half-hour intervals is a wise
precaution to avoid adverse effects of the sun.
- Avoid failing asleep in the sun, after lunch, for example.
- Adequate protection from the sun's rays can only be obtained by covering up
and wearing a hat or by using the highest factors - above 10 - in protective
sunscreen lotions and creams. These should be frequently re-applied, especially
on children and fair-skinned adults. The sun's ray's can pass through lightly
woven material such as thin shirts and blouses.
- Skin cancer is a serious risk, especially to fair-skinned, blue-eyed, red-
and fair-haired people who freckle. The effects of the rays build up over
continued exposure over the years. The risk can only be decreased by avoiding
direct exposure to sunlight from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and by adequate coverage
using the highest factor sun protective creams at other times (15+).
- Eyes should be protected with good-quality sunglasses.
This paper first appeared in Travel Clinics - A primary care manual
It was sponsored by SmithKline Beecham Vaccines Group
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