Cancer Prevention
Agricultural workers and farmers can experience long-term exposure to sunlight, pesticides, dust, and other workplace hazards. Reducing exposure today can help protect you from cancer in the future.
Protect Your Skin
Long-term exposure to UV radiation from the sun increases the risk of skin cancer. More than 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day in the US, and about 1 in 5 Americans will develop the disease by the age of 70.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Wear long sleeves and protective clothing.
- Use sunscreen on exposed skin.
- Take breaks in shaded areas or indoors.
- Schedule outdoor work when UV levels are lower, in the mornings or evenings.
- Check your skin regularly for unusual changes.
Pesticide Safety
Ways to reduce pesticide exposure:
- Read and follow all pesticide labels.
- Wear the appropriate PPE that is specified on the label.
- Avoid spills and splashes. If you experience skin exposure, immediately remove any contaminated clothing and wash the area with clean water.
- Keep pesticides away from food and water.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling pesticides.
- Always store pesticides securely and properly.
