UAS UMR Cares – July: Cancer Awareness

From outdoor activities to longer days enjoying the sun, it’s exciting to celebrate the joys of summer. While you’re outside, be proactive about the potential health risks of increased sun exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause a variety of health problems ranging from sunburn and eye damage to premature aging and increased chance of skin cancer.

Protect yourself — use broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, wear protective clothing, and seek shade when sun rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Here are some other ways you can prioritize your health and take advantage of your university-sponsored benefits:

• Visit a dermatologist: While you can do regular skin self-exams and look for any new or changing moles or growths, seeing a dermatologist annually for skin checkups is important. A dermatologist will scan your body fully to look for any suspicious moles or lesions and, if necessary, perform a biopsy to determine whether skin cancer cells are present. Dermatologists are covered under in-network specialist visits for all three medical plans.
• Eye exam: Exposure to the sun can lead to sunburn of the cornea (photokeratitis) or solar retinopathy, which damages the retina. Blurred vision, light sensitivity, and blind spots can be symptoms hinting that something is wrong. Visit an optometrist as soon as possible so that a professional can assess the damage and work with you on an appropriate treatment plan. Note: Your vision coverage also includes coverage for UV treatment on lenses, so you can keep your eyes safe from sun rays.
• Time away: Sick leave is available if you need treatment or a diagnostic consultation from a licensed health care provider. Your health should be your top priority, so be sure to take time for yourself if a medical concern arises.

For more information on your benefits, visit uasys.edu/benefits.