Chronic effects include two major public health problems: skin cancers and cataracts. Between two and three million non-melanoma skin cancers and approximately 132,000 melanoma skin cancers occur globally each year. While non-melanoma skin cancers can be surgically removed and are rarely lethal, malignant melanoma substantially contributes to mortality rates, particularly in fair-skinned populations. Some 12 to 15 million people are blind from cataracts. According to WHO estimates, up to 20% of these cases of blindness may be caused or enhanced by sun exposure, especially in countries of the “cataract belt” close to the equator. Furthermore, a growing body of evidence suggests that environmental levels of UV radiation may enhance the risk of infectious diseases and limit the efficacy of vaccinations. 

People’s behaviour in the sun is considered to be a major cause for the rise in skin cancer rates in recent decades. An increase in popular outdoor activities and changed sunbathing habits often result in excessive exposure to UV radiation. Many people still perceive a suntan as a symbol of attractiveness and good health. 

WHAT IS THE SOLAR UV INDEX? 

The Solar UV Index (UVI) describes the level of solar UV radiation at the Earth’s surface. The values of the index range from zero upward – the higher the index value, the greater the potential for damage to the skin and eye, and the less time it takes for harm to occur. 

WHY DO WE NEED THE UVI? 

The UVI is an important vehicle to raise public awareness of the risks of excessive exposure to UV radiation, and to alert people about the need to adopt protective measures. Encouraging people to reduce their skin exposure can decrease harmful health effects and significantly reduce health care costs. The UVI is especially aimed at vulnerable and highly-exposed groups such as children and tourists. 

UVI values are grouped into exposure categories: 

    EXPOSURE CATEGORY                                               UVI RANGE

    LOW                                                                                   < 2

    MODERATE                                                                      3 TO 5

    HIGH                                                                                  6 TO 7 

    VERY HIGH                                                                       8 TO 10

    EXTREME                                                                          11+

ARE DARKER-SKINNED PEOPLE AFFECTED? 

It is a popular misconception that only fair-skinned people need to be concerned about over exposure to the sun. Darker skin has more protective melanin pigment, and the incidence of skin cancer is lower in dark-skinned people. Nevertheless, skin cancers do occur with this group and unfortunately they are often detected at a later, more dangerous stage. The risk of UV radiation-related health effects on the eye and immune system is independent of skin type.  

THE BASIC SUN PROTECTION MESSAGES

  • Limit exposure during midday hours.
  • Seek shade.
  • Wear protective clothing.
  • Wear a broad-brimmed hat to protect the eyes, face and neck.
  • Protect the eyes with wrap-around-design sunglasses or sunglasses with side panels.
  • Use and reapply broad-spectrum sunscreen of sun protection factor (SPF)15+ liberally.
  • Avoid tanning beds.
  • Protect babies and young children: this is particularly important.

Shade, clothing and hats provide the best protection – apply sunscreen to parts of the body that remain exposed, like the face and hands. Sunscreen should never be used to prolong the duration of sun exposure.