VISN 2: Veterans' Wellness, Fall 2007

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July 2008 - Love the skin you’re in!


Did You Know?
July isn’t only skin deep. It’s also: National Recreation and Parks Month Our massive forests, pristine lakes and awesome craters are our national treasure. Make the time to visit them!

While the sun’s summer rays can sure feel good, they can really take their toll on your skin and eyes. Unprotected sun exposure can lead to skin cancer, age spots, cataracts and more. Try these tips to minimize damage:

Avoid tanning, including tanning booths.

Skip outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.

Opt for long-sleeved shirts, long pants and wide-brimmed hats while outside. Or try clothing that has ultraviolet protection built right into the fabric.

Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher daily—even on cloudy days, year round. Give it ample time to soak in by applying 30 minutes before you go outside.

Wear sunglasses with ultraviolet protection. You can purchase them prescription free at your local drugstore.

Monitor your skin carefully. Look for any suspicious growths or changes to any moles or freckles—early detection can be a real lifesaver. Visit your VA health care provider for an annual skin check.

“Summer afternoon—Summer afternoon ...
the two most beautiful words in the English language.”

—Henry James, author

To print, download the full "Veterans Wellness 2008 Calendar " in Acrobat PDF Format

July calendar
July 4th - Independence Day Celebrate America!
July 9th - Read a book or magazine—outside!
July 13th - Seen any good movies lately?
July 19th - Access to a pool? Swim a few laps for fun and fitness.
July 21st - Enjoy the fruits of summer.
July 27th - Parent’s Day
July 31st - It’s summertime! Don’t you feel good?

It’s summertime—which means no hiding behind roomy sweaters. Don’t forget to keep up with your 2008 health calendar:		Starting weight for July: _________ Goal weight for July: _________ Exercise goals: __________________________ What special memory did you make this month? _____________________ ________________________________________ ________________________________________

Have sun fun while protecting your skin! Get important information about skin safety and cancer prevention at the Skin Cancer Foundation www.skincancer.org*

* Links will take you outside of the Department of Veterans Affairs Web site. VA does not endorse and is not responsible for the content of the linked web sites. The link will open in a new window.

Reviewed/Updated Date: January 16, 2008