As Canadians enjoy the longer days, it’s important to remember that UV radiation doesn’t take a holiday. With skin cancer now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada—and rates having more than tripled over the past 30 years—it’s crucial that we treat sun protection not just as a seasonal habit, but a lifelong health strategy.
At Destinations Travel and Immunization Clinic, we believe prevention begins with education and action. We’re proud to echo the expert guidance of Dr. Mariusz Sapijaszko, dermatologist and clinical professor at the University of Alberta, who lent his voice to Merck Canada’s Practice Skintimacy campaign. His key message? Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of skin shade or age, and early detection is the key to survival.
Three Essential Tips for Skin Cancer Prevention
- Seek Shade Between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
UV rays are at their strongest midday. Find shelter under trees, umbrellas, or awnings whenever possible. - Cover Up with Protective Clothing
Choose long sleeves, wide-brim hats, and UV-protective sunglasses. Not all clothing offers equal sun protection—loose, tightly woven fabrics work best. - Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen with SPF 30 or Higher
Apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget lips, ears, and the back of the neck!
The Hidden Risk to Your Eyes
According to optometrist Dr. Mona Ubhi of Beyond Vision in Edmonton, prolonged UV exposure can damage the eyes just as it harms the skin. Conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis (a sunburn on your cornea) can all develop with time—or even after a single intense exposure.
Dr. Ubhi’s tip? Look for sunglasses labeled UV400 or 100% UV protection. Start early with children—who receive three times more UV exposure than adults—and encourage protective habits that last a lifetime.
UV Rays Are Year-Round
It’s a common myth that UV protection is only necessary in the summer. In fact, UV radiation can bounce off snow, water, and even penetrate cloud cover during cooler seasons. This means that sun safety is a 12-month priority, whether you’re skiing in January or paddleboarding in July.
At Destinations Travel and Immunization Clinic, we encourage patients to make sun safety part of their everyday routine. We offer personalized travel consultations that include recommendations on UV protection tailored to your destination, medications, and skin type. We can also advise you on medications that may increase sun sensitivity, such as tetracyclines, NSAIDs, or isotretinoin.
If you notice any new, changing, or unusual skin spots, schedule a medical checkup. When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
Stay protected. Stay informed. And keep enjoying the sun—safely.
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Because Your Health Doesn’t Take a Vacation — Even When You Do.
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