The Bentway is thrilled to recognize the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund as the official sun safety partner for Sun/Shade, our summer exhibition of public art that explores shade as an essential public resource and reimagines how cities can adapt to warmer climates and create safer, more comfortable urban spaces.
Partnering with the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund, The Bentway’s Sun/Shade season examines new ways of collaborating with the sun and highlights the growing value of shade in modern cities. As global temperatures rise and extreme heat takes a more prominent role in urban life, cities are increasingly called to explore the importance of shade as a democratizing public resource, providing essential shelter and protection from heat and sun exposure.
It is predicted that by 2050, extreme heat events in the Greater Toronto Area will rise from 20 days per year to 66 days per year, leading to an increased risk of illness and mortality. Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada, with over 90% of skin cancers directly caused by harmful UV rays. The incidence of melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer – is increasing.
In light of these alarming statistics, it is more vital than ever to re-evaluate our relationship to sun and shade, considering these natural resources not only from a lens of thermal comfort, but one of public safety. With this goal, an organic partnership formed with the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund, a Toronto-based charity whose mission is to save lives from melanoma skin cancer through awareness, prevention and research. With their support, we continue exploring ways to promote and create shade to enhance health and public spaces.
This summer, David Cornfield Melanoma Fund recommends that the best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect your skin from the sun by:
- Seeking shade
- Covering up with a hat and long clothing
- Wearing sunglasses
- Wearing sunscreen
- Reducing your time in the sun
Sun Safety FAQ
Danielle Paterson, Executive Director of the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund, offers expert insight into protecting your skin this summer:
Do you only need to use sun protection on hot days?
Sun protection is important all year round. The sun can damage your skin in all seasons.
What is a UV Index and how does one use it?
The UV Index forecasts the sun’s intensity on a scale of 0-11. Reported on most weather forecasts, the UV Index helps people understand what time of day the sun is strongest so they can take measures to protect their skin.
Is there such a thing as a safe tan?
A tan is a sign of permanent skin damage. The best way to lower your risk of skin cancer is to protect your skin and avoid tanning or burning.
Can you get sunburned in the shade?
Shade helps protect from direct sun, but it doesn’t fully block harmful UV rays. UV rays can reflect off water, sand, or concrete, and even pass through some shade, still causing sun exposure.
Can you get sunburned on a cloudy day?
Yes. UV rays can penetrate through clouds and can be strong enough to cause sunburn.
Does sunscreen with higher SPF protect you for longer?
Yes, sunscreens with higher SPF (Sun Protection Factor) generally provide more protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. However, the added protection between very high SPFs, like SPF 50 and SPF 100, is minimal. Choose a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen (protects against both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of 30 or higher.
