exposure may be hazardous.

Sun damage is caused by the sun's ultraviolet rays called UVA and UVB.

These harmful rays are present all year around, even on foggy days. Routine daily tasks such as a lunch hour walk or driving the car may expose you to sun damage. The lighter the skin, the higher the risk of sun damage.

This is due to the relative protection offered by the natural skin pigment melanin, to those with darker skins. However, no skin is totally immune to sun damage. The commonest type of sun damage is sunburn. Long-term sun exposure results in premature aging of the skin, and far more seriously, skin cancer.

Most types of skin cancer are preventable by adequate protection from the sun.

Symptoms and signs of an acute sunburn may take up to 24 hours to develop.

Skin changes range from mild redness with skin peeling, to pain, swelling, skin tenderness and blisters from more prolonged exposure. If a large area is sunburnt, constitutional symptoms such as fever, chills, weakness and shock may develop. Complications can include infection of the burn, or an itchy, inflamed reaction. After a sunburn, the skin may be more sensitive to the sun for up to several weeks. Cool water soaks provide simple and safe relief for sunburn. Avoid applying lotion or creams that contain local anaesthetic preparations such as benzocaine, since they may cause allergic reactions and add to the distress of sun burn. Consult your doctor for severe sunburns.

Prevention of sun damage: Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun during the peak hours between 10.00 a.m.

and 3.00 p.m. Remember this when you arrange outdoor activities for children and young infants. Protective hats, caps and cotton clothes reduce sun damage.

Sunscreens and sunblocks protect your skin from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays, if applied liberally, 30 minutes or more before exposure to the sun.

Sunscreens are labelled according to SPF or sun protection factor. Use with SPF 15 or more. Sunscreens containing Para Amino Benzoic Acid or FABA are highly effective. Those who are allergic to PABA should use a "PABA free'' sunscreen.

Sunblocks such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide physically block the sun's rays from reaching the skin. For outdoor activities, apply a sunscreen with a high degree of protection such as SPF 45. Apply generous amounts of sunscreen, e.g., one ounce for a full body application for an adult.

Use sunglasses (eye shades) which cut off harmful UV rays, for yourself and your child. Read the label carefully. Be aware that paying a higher price for sunglasses does not automatically guarantee a higher degree of sun protection.

Sun damage may cause cataracts and damage the retina of the eye.

Pregnant mothers, persons taking certain medications, e.g., oestrogen supplements and those taking the contraceptive pill may be more sensitive to sunlight.

If you get recurrent cold sores, use an effective sunscreen including lip cover, since cold sores may be induced by the sun.

Drink plenty of liquids on hot days to compensate for salt and water loss from the body.

Since no commercial product can give total protection, use common sense precautions such as minimising sun exposure during its peak hours between 10.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. Remember that a bad sunburn on a young child increase his or her risk of skin cancer later in life.

It is your responsibility to protect infants and young children in your care from the sun.

DR. L. ANANDAGODA Medical Officer Department of Health