www.insideHALTON.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Thursday, January 19, 2012 · 18 Winter woollies can't protect kids' skin from the winter sun (NC)--A winter toque and knitted scarf aren't the only protection Canadian families need on a snowy winter's day. Whether you're taking a stroll on a wintery day, having a snowball fight, or hitting the outdoor rink or slopes, be aware that snowy conditions intensify the harmful effects of the sun on your skin, and this can lead to premature aging or skin cancer. Many people don't know that the snow reflects up to 80 per cent of UV radiation (eight times more than water). Findings from a recent Angus Reid survey show that two thirds of Canadians do not protect themselves from the dangers of winter sun. In Canada, the rates of melanoma have tripled over the last 30 years and continue to increase. Melanoma is one of the few cancers to affect young adults, and is the second most common cancer amongst 15-34 year olds. Children and teenagers have much more sensitive skin than adults, requiring extra protection if playing outdoors for long periods of time. Even if the sky is cloudy, the sun's harmful rays can get through fog, haze and light cloud cover. Studies show that sunburn early in life may increase the risk of skin cancer later. This means children should get used to wearing protective clothing, protective eyewear and sunscreen lotion from an early age. Take a look at the many steps you can take to keep your family sun safe this winter: · Wear two (not just one) layers of a full spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on all exposed areas, and apply just before going outside. · Reapply sunscreen every two hours. · Keep children younger than three out of direct sunlight. · Protect yourself with clothing, a hat with a brim, and sunglasses year-round. · Check your skin monthly--often skin cancers can be cured if detected early. More information about winter sun safety is available online at www.melanomanetwork.ca. Easy diabetes diagnosis with simple blood test According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, today, more than 9 million Canadians are living with diabetes and prediabetes. This is a very serious statistic considering that diabetes is a contributing factor in approximately 41,500 deaths each year and costs the Canadian healthcare system $16.9 billion annually. Now there is a simple and quick blood test, called an A1C test, which not only helps you determine how well controlled your diabetes is, it can also be used to diagnose the disease. This test measures how much glycosylated hemoglobin, or hemoglobin A1C, is in the blood. Hemoglobin A1C is formed when blood sugar sticks to hemoglobin of red blood cells. As blood sugar levels rise, so do levels of hemoglobin A1C. Since red blood cells live for about three months, the hemoglobin A1C level indicates how well blood sugar has been controlled during this period. A1C testing can be performed at a medical lab and exclusively at Rexall pharmacies across Canada. "The immediate result from this test allows the person to start treatment and continue living a full life, and that's very important," said Tracey Phillips, a Rexall pharmacist. "Studies show that patients who get immediate feedback may lower their A1C levels. All that is needed is just five minutes and a fingerstick to obtain a blood sample." How do I track A1C? Monitoring blood glucose every day is an important step to managing blood sugar, and the hemoglobin A1C is an accurate way to measure how well your diabetes treatment plan is working. When blood sugars are consistently high over time, the hemoglobin A1C will also be high. When hemoglobin A1C is high, changes to your medication or lifestyle (exercise or diet) are needed. How often should the test be performed? A1C should be measured at least twice a year if you have diabetes. However, if your blood sugar is high or your diabetes medication regimen is changed, your doctor may want to measure the hemoglobin A1C more frequently until your blood sugar returns to an acceptable range. Are there any precautions? People with bleeding disorders or anyone taking medication that reduces the ability of the blood to clot should tell the technician before the samples of blood are taken. These conditions and medications may require special attention at the time of testing. More information about the A1C test is available from your Rexall pharmacist or online at rexall.ca. www.newscanada.com COSMETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY · · · · · · Tooth Whitening Veneers · Bridges · Dentures Digital X-Rays Custom-Crafted Crowns Root Canal Therapy A Specialist Available in Periodontics (Dr. Nasser Derakshan) · Intra-Oral Cameras Now, see what the dentist sees! Jet Peel - Natural Skin Rejuvenation Using only saline solution and air Jet Peel painlessly and effectively · Removes Sun Damage · Hydrates & Oxygenates · Deep Cleanses & Exfoliates · Rejuvenates · New modern dental facilities including TVs in each room · Mercury free fillings available · Several convenient payment options available Convenient Hours! Open Evenings & Saturdays! WE BILL INSURANCE COMPANIES DIRECTLY We welcome new patients and emergencies 905-842-6030 Q.E.W. & Trafalgar Lower Level, beside H&M · Reduces Pores · Reduces Wrinkles This revolutionary skin care technology has been used in our spa since 2007 Enhance Your Smile at 361 Cornwall Rd., Oakville Oakville Place Dr. Steven Solomon Dr. Jonathan Kazdan Dr. Marisa D'Angelo www.dentistoakville.com H o u r s : M o n . -T h u r s . 8 a m - 9 p m , Fr i . 8 a m - 3 p m , S a t . 8 a m - 4 p m www.beautyinstituteandspa.com Please visit our website: 289.291.0168 (next to the Whole Foods Market)