Ultraviolet safety awareness

This topic is brought to you by Express Scripts by Evernorth’s Wellness Wire.

As the Summer rays are heating up, this is the perfect time to remind you of the importance of protecting yourself from UV rays year-round and to be
aware of the immediate and long-term damage caused by UV exposure. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 5 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year in the United States, making it the most common form of cancer in the United States. By taking proactive measures to protect against UV radiation, people can significantly reduce their risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

What is UV radiation?
Ultraviolet radiation is invisible to the naked eye, made up of high-energy waves that can damage DNA and cause sunburns. It comes from the sun and can also come from artificial sources like tanning beds.

You can do a few things to minimize your sun exposure and reduce your risk of skin damage:

• Try to stay in the shade as much as possible. If you are in the sun, wear protective clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt and pants.
• You should also apply sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or higher) rating to exposed skin.
• Avoid being in the sun during peak hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm.

Common myths about UV radiation that you should stop believing:
Myth 1: I don’t need to worry about UV radiation when it’s cloudy.
Myth 2: I don’t need to worry about UV radiation if I have dark skin.
Myth 3: I don’t need to worry about UV radiation when wearing sunscreen.

Express Scripts by Evernorth is our pharmacy benefits manager and is dedicated to helping you achieve your overall health and wellness goals with the tools and resources we have available. Visit the Express Scripts website or call 800.846.4008 to speak to a Express Scripts pharmacist.