Free sunscreen at Town of North Hempstead parks
Free sunscreen will once again be available at North Hempstead Town parks facilities this summer thanks to an ongoing collaboration with North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset and Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park.
The SPF 30 sunscreen, which will be in dispensers at more than a dozen beaches, pools, playgrounds and sports facilities throughout the town, was donated by the two Northwell Health hospitals to help combat a rise in skin cancer diagnoses. In addition, the town and Northwell are also offering free skin cancer screenings at various locations for town residents through its annual “Wellness Wednesdays” program this summer.
“It cannot be overstated how generous North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center have been with their time and resources,” said North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena. “They have proven to be such compassionate and proactive neighbors, and we are so fortunate to have such world-class medical facilities and leaders right in our backyard. Our continued partnership is a reflection of our shared commitment to ensuring that everyone in North Hempstead can enjoy the season safely and with their health and wellbeing at the forefront.”
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and worldwide and with statistics showing that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Having five or more sunburns doubles the risk for melanoma. According to the American Cancer Society, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which can damage skin and cause skin cancer.
“Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer when we take early action. By offering free screenings and sunscreen at the town’s beaches, pools and parks, we’re empowering our local residents to protect their health. North Shore University Hospital is committed to wellness programs that expand access to healthcare resources to the communities we serve, ” said Dr. Michael Gitman, president, North Shore University Hospital. “We’re honored once again to work with the Town of North Hempstead and the town’s parks department on this critical wellness initiative.”
To learn more about where free sunscreen dispensers are located, or the schedule for the Wellness Wednesday series, visit: northhempsteadny.gov/departments/parks_recreation/wellness_wednesday.php.
