Safe Driving Starts With … Sunscreen?

A seat belt won't protect you from this driving danger.

By Lindsay Miller
From Reader's Digest
Advertisement
 
Sun Safety
Illustrated by Travis Foster
Don't get burned -- your car can't protect you from the sun's harmful rays.
Image
The downsides of a long commute: traffic jams, stress—and maybe even skin cancer.

In a review of 898 skin cancer cases, experts at Saint Louis University discovered more instances on the left side of the body than on the right. Upon further study, they found that driving was a possible cause—and men are especially vulnerable. Guys were more likely than women to develop left-side cancers in places like the hands and face, which are most exposed to the sun while driving.


The reason for the gender difference? Men were more likely to sit behind the wheel and to have more years of driving experience than women. It’s further evidence that UV exposure while driving contributes to the cancer over time, says lead author Scott Fosko, MD. Shield your skin with special car window tints that block harmful rays, or use sunscreen year-round and wear long sleeves and pants when driving.
From Reader's Digest - June 2007
 
Must Read Should Everyone Read This? Yes! I vote for this story

Your Comments

See all

...

You will be asked to sign in or register to post a comment

Characters Remaining

Advertisement
 
Related Links
Daily Tip

“ Trying to do everything is a one-way ticket to serious stress. Be clear about your limits, and stop trying to please everyone all the time. ”

Bonus Tip

“ Studies show that elevated levels of stress reduce the number of T cells in your body. You need T cells to keep your immune system strong. So if you're feeling under the weather, take it easy. Doctor's orders! ”


Advertisement