As the weather warms up in Kansas City, many of us are eager to spend more time outdoors. Whether you’re hiking, playing sports with your kids, or simply enjoying a sunny day, it’s important to remember one thing: sun safety matters.
At ProPartners Healthcare, your trusted Kansas City primary care provider, we believe that prevention is the foundation of good health. Here’s everything you need to know about UV radiation, how it affects your skin, and what you can do to stay protected.
What Is Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation?
The sun gives off energy in several forms; visible light, heat (infrared), and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While we need some sunlight to produce vitamin D, too much exposure, especially without protection, can lead to serious health problems.
There are three types of UV radiation:
- UVA rays: Penetrate deeply into the skin, leading to premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer.
- UVB rays: Cause sunburns and are strongly linked to skin cancers, including melanoma.
- UVC rays: Blocked by the atmosphere and don’t reach the Earth’s surface.
UV radiation is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and it can damage your skin even on cloudy days. That’s why our primary care team always emphasizes the importance of daily sun protection.
Why Is UV Protection Important?
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Nearly 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. The good news? It’s also one of the most preventable forms of cancer.
You should know that:
- Most sun damage happens before the age of 18.
- Just a few serious sunburns can double your risk of skin cancer.
- UV rays also contribute to eye damage, weakened immune function, and premature aging.
Tips from Your Kansas City Primary Care Team: How to Stay Safe in the Sun
Here are a few easy ways to protect yourself and your family:
1. Avoid Peak Sun Hours
UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to schedule outdoor activities for earlier or later in the day.
2. Wear Protective Gear
Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection, and tightly woven clothing all provide added defense.
3. Always Use Sunscreen
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin at least 20 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, especially if swimming or sweating.
4. Watch Out for Reflective Surfaces
Water, snow, and sand can reflect UV rays and increase your risk of sunburn even in winter or on cloudy days.
5. Skip the Tanning Beds
Tanning beds emit both UVA and UVB radiation, significantly raising your skin cancer risk.
Know Your UV Index: A Daily Safety Tool
The UV Index measures the strength of UV radiation in your area. It ranges from 1 (low risk) to 11+ (extreme risk) and can help you plan outdoor activities more safely. You can check the UV forecast for Kansas City at epa.gov.
Monthly Self-Checks and Regular Skin Exams
Even with precautions, it’s important to monitor your skin. Perform a monthly self-check and look for:
- New or changing moles
- Sores that don’t heal
- Uneven coloring or changes in shape
At ProPartners Healthcare, our direct primary care providers are here to help you with preventive screenings, full skin checks, and expert guidance. With our direct primary care membership model, you can enjoy convenient access to your doctor without copays or rushed visits.
What Is Direct Primary Care?
If you’re new to the concept, direct primary care (DPC) is a membership-based healthcare model that offers better access, lower costs, and more personalized care. Our patients love the freedom to text or call their doctor, same- or next-day appointments, and the transparent pricing.
Why Patients Choose Direct Primary Care:
- Affordable pricing: Most direct primary care plans cost less than $100/month—a fraction of what concierge medicine can cost.
- No insurance billing: That means less paperwork and no surprise bills.
- Included benefits: Many of our direct primary care memberships include discounts on medications, lab work, imaging, and more.
To learn more, visit propartnershealthcare.com/what-is-direct-primary-care-dpc
Final Thoughts from Your Primary Care Team
UV safety isn’t just a summertime concern, it’s a year-round priority. Whether you’re exploring trails, attending a Royals game, or just walking your dog, staying sun-safe protects your health for years to come.
As a trusted primary care provider in Kansas City, our goal is to make preventive care easy, accessible, and personalized for every member. From skin checks to health screenings and lifestyle advice, ProPartners Healthcare is here to help you take control of your wellness journey.
Have questions? Thinking about joining a direct primary care membership? Reach out to schedule a free consultation and learn how Kansas City DPC can work for you.