U.S. Health Officials Urge UV Safety During Summer

The New York State Department of Health reminded residents on July 14 to protect their skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, noting that more than 4,500 New Yorkers are diagnosed with melanoma each year and over 365 die from the disease. State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald advised using broad‑spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wearing hats, protective clothing and sunglasses, and avoiding peak sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

In conjunction with July’s UV Safety Awareness Month, Yale dermatologist Dr. Kathleen Suozzi highlighted the prevalence of skin cancer in the United States—over 5 million cases annually—and described key signs of chronic UV damage, including actinic keratosis, dyspigmentation, solar lentigines and loss of skin elasticity. She stressed early education and preventive measures, especially for younger populations, to reduce long‑term cancer risk.