Happy Labor Day! Hopefully you will be able to get out and enjoy some of the day, or even from the weekend if you were really lucky. Weather is very comfortable, and our good weather won’t be lasting long. Get out on the water, or go for a walk, clean up the yard, somthing…but spend it outside and enjoy the day. Good day for family time as well. Relax!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1441
The best way to protect yourself against skin cancer, whether melanoma or other type, is prevention. Starting with what you wear can make a big difference. Here I have a hat on, and one that would even be better is one with sides on to cover the ears. I have a swim shirt with a SPF factor of 50 on, and long swim shorts. The other thing to keep in mind is the sunscreen. You want sunscreens that can block both UVA and UVB light. Sunscreens with an SPF factor of 50, or sun protection factor of 50, more effectively block UVA with a higher SPF factor. Below are some examples.
Sunscreens come with different SPF ratings, some as a cream, some as a spray on. You want one that is more water or sweat proof. For me, with my light complexion, I use a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 100. They never had this when I was younger, and I have been burned enough times that I do not take any chances anymore. I can spend time outside, either working, exercising, playing, whatever, and not worry about getting burned, which in the long run, increases your potential for the development of skin cancer. The things you do today, will pay dividends in the future…in regards to many things!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1440
Below is from the American Academy of Dermatology in regards to Melanoma, The ABCDE’s. As on my previous post, I talked about what Melanoma is, and this describes in more detail. Next will be to talk about some things to be protective in the sun, and help reduce the risk of development of skin cancers. You can be safe, and still enjoy the outdoors for activities.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1439
A view of the sun as it was rising this AM– and with the temps and humidity increasing as well, remember to keep in mind, not just today, but all the time, the dangers the sun can create–specifically skin cancer. One in particular, melanoma, is the most dangerous. Melanoma is a malignant tumor of melanocytes, which are cells that produce the dark pigment, melanin, which is responsible for the color of skin. Melanoma is les common than other skin cancers, but it is much more dangerous, and causes the majority (75%) of deaths related to skin cancer. There are about 160,000 new cases of melanoma yearly. Red hair, fair skin, or light complexion all increase your potential of developing melanoma. Treatment includes surgical removal of the tumor, and can include chemo and radiation therapy. The chance of cure is greatest when the tumor is discovered while it is still small and thin, and can be removed entirely by surgery. Stay tuned as the next few posts will discuss the “ABC’s” in dealing with the signs and symptoms of melanoma, and what you can do to help prevent development of it.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1437
The Reiffenberger Family, all geared up with examples of their favorite type of exercise…ranging from swimming, to biking, to running. As a parent, your children learn best by example. You set the tone, and it is much easier for your kids to follow and stay active. Their interest in sports may be different, but that is OK. The goal is to help enusre that they stay active. For me, running, biking, exercise in general–is a refuge, from work, the chaos and stress of raising 3 children, and just the everyday stress and struggles of life. It is not just about escape though. I love to exercise, and the feeling it gives me. I have more energy, I am staying healthier, and I have the stamina to keep up with my kids. I am living life to the fullest. After all, is that not what life is about? A special thanks to Cory Ann Ellis, friend, and family photographer, for capturing a great moment that will end up hanging up in our house.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1433
The Cross Country season is under way for the school year as of yesterday with the first Watertown home meet. It ended up being a very warm afternoon for a race, but considering the usual weather for Cross Country, this was great. Here Nick is running, and really enjoys the sport. He spent a good part of the summer running and biking to get ready.
Here Molly is in her race. Both did well for the first meet of the year. A lot of work lies ahead, but they are up for the challenge. They have a friendly rivalry between themselves, not to mention with Dad! I think they realize maybe Dad is not as slow as they think he should be. We all have fun together, and it makes for a good activity/sport that we can do together, and you don’t need any special equipment to do it. Enjoy the weekend.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1432