Encouraging Be Sun Smart Behavior with the Steven Robinson Memorial Endowment

Foundation for Community Health has been busy encouraging western Montanans to Be Sun Smart this summer! Sun exposure is the primary cause of skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States. Foundation Executive Director, Dorcie Dvarishkis, and our Be Sun Smart partners, Dr. Kristin Anderson and Betty Robinson, mother of Steven Robinson, had the opportunity to talk with campers at Missoula Family YMCA's summer Babysitting Camps about steps they can take to keep themselves, their loved ones and children they may care for safe from the sun's rays. We have also been working with ABCFOX Montana, MTN 102.5 FM, Missoula Broadcasting and Montana Public Radio to produce Be Sun Smart radio ads and television commercials encouraging listeners and viewers to protect their skin while spending time in the sun. You can help protect yourself and your loved ones from skin cancer by following these sun smart steps:

• Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply often.
• Wear a long-sleeved shirt, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-rated sunglasses.
• Check the UV index before going outside and avoid the mid-day sun.
• Protect your skin when spending time on reflective surfaces such as sand or water.
• Drink lots of water and use lotion after sun exposure.
• Learn the signs of skin cancer and melanoma.

These efforts are part of our Be Sun Smart initiative, supported by the Steven Robinson Memorial Endowment. The endowment was established by Steven’s family after he lost his life to a late diagnosis of melanoma in 2000 at the age of 35. Learn more about the initiative and ways you can support healthy lives at fchwmt.org or call 406.926.2522.