Solar Injury and Heat Illness

In brief Children are particularly susceptible to solar injury to the skin and eyes and to heat illness-heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Because sunburn during childhood is linked to subsequent skin cancer, aggressive prevention through use of sunscreens and other protective measures is critical. Physicians should screen for risk factors for heat illness, such as hypohydration, obesity, poor conditioning, and certain illnesses. Heat illness can be effectively prevented through acclimation, proper hydration, and advance event planning.