UV radiation – what is it?
UV radiation is electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun and other sources like tanning beds and certain lamps.
UV radiation can have both beneficial and harmful effects. Small doses of UV radiation are essential for vitamin D production. However, overexposure to UV radiation can cause sunburn, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer, includingmelanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma.
What types of UV radiation cause skin cancer?
There are three types of UV radiation based on their wavelength:
- UVA (320-400 nm): UVA accounts for approximately 95 per cent of the UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. They penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB rays and are primarily responsible for premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles and age spots. They can also contribute to skin cancer development.
- UVB (280-320 nm): UVB rays cause sunburn and play a key role in skin damage. They mostly affect the outer layer of the skin (epidermis)
- UVC (100-280 nm): UVC rays have the shortest wavelength and are mostly absorbed by the Earth’s ozone layer, so they do not reach the Earth’s surface in significant amounts.
How do UV rays cause skin cancer?
UVB rays directly damage DNA in skin cells, causing skin cancer.
Genetic mutations and uncontrolled cell growth can result from damaged DNA, eventually leading to skin cancer.
Additionally, they can have a negative effect on the immune system, making it less effective at detecting and destroying cancerous cells.
A majority of melanomas are believed to be caused by UV exposure.
Squamous cell cancer and basal cell cancer are most often found on sun-exposed body parts, suggesting that UV rays contribute strongly to their development.
How does skin type affect UV damage?
Skin type significantly influences susceptibility to UV damage, with lighter skin types being more prone to sunburn and skin cancer due to lower levels of melanin, while those with darker skin types have a reduced risk.
However, it is important to keep in mind that individuals with a family history or other risk factors for skin cancer are still highly potential candidates for developing the disease, regardless of their skin type. Therefore, proactive sun protection measures are crucial for everyone, regardless of skin tone or type.
How do tanning beds lead to skin cancer?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunbeds, sunlamps and tanning beds can damage skin DNA, and cause skin cancer.
Your skin is damaged and your risk of cancer increases every time you use a sunbed
- keep in mind that there’s no safe UV tanning.
What is UV index?
To avoid sunburn and skin damage, it’s always important to protect yourself from UV radiation. Checking the UV index can help you plan for your safety outside.
UV index (UVI) is a measure of UV radiation intensity. With a higher UVI, skin cancer is more likely, and damage occurs faster.
When UVI levels are high, protective measures, such as sunscreen and avoiding direct sunlight, should be taken.
Let’s break down the UV index numbers and protective measures associated with each range:
- UVI 1-2 (Low Risk): At this level, the risk of skin damage is minimal. While applying daily sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses is essential, outdoor activities can be enjoyed
- UVI 3-7 (Moderate-High Risk): The risk increases moderately within this range. Along with sunscreen and sunglasses, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours are advised for optimal protection.
- 7 and above: Take all necessary protection against sun exposure
you should keep in mind that:
- The strongest UVB light occurs between 10am and 4pm when the sun travels through the atmosphere most directly.
- However, UVA rays intensity remains relatively constant throughout the day. They are also not significantly affected by clouds.
So, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s rays even on cloudy days
How can you protect yourself from UV rays?
To reduce the risk of skin cancer, it is important to protect your skin from UV radiation. Here are practical steps that can be taken to protect your skin:
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher before spending time outdoors. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if sweating.
- Wear wide-brimmed hats that protect your face, neck, and ears.
- Be sure to wear clothes that cover as much skin as you can, especially your arms and legs.
- Shield your eyes with sunglasses that protect against UVA and UVB rays.
- Limit direct sun exposure during midday. If outdoors, seek and stay in the shade.
- Avoid indoor tanning.
