What are the dangers of ultraviolet radiation?

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause skin damage, eye problems, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Ultraviolet radiation is a type of energy produced by the sun and some artificial sources like tanning beds. It is more energetic than visible light, which means it has the potential to cause harm to living organisms. The Earth's ozone layer absorbs most of the sun's UV radiation, but some still reaches the surface and can affect us.

One of the most immediate and noticeable effects of UV radiation is sunburn. This is actually a type of skin damage, where the UV radiation harms the DNA in skin cells. Over time, repeated exposure can lead to premature ageing of the skin, causing it to become wrinkled and leathery. It can also cause skin pigmentation changes, such as freckles and age spots.

UV radiation can also cause problems for the eyes. Short-term exposure can lead to photokeratitis, a painful condition often described as feeling like having sand in your eyes. Long-term exposure can lead to cataracts, a clouding of the lens in the eye that can impair vision.

Perhaps the most serious risk of UV radiation is skin cancer. The damage to skin cell DNA can cause the cells to grow out of control, leading to cancer. There are several types of skin cancer, but the most dangerous is malignant melanoma. This can spread to other parts of the body and is potentially fatal.

It's important to note that not all UV radiation is harmful. Our bodies need a certain amount to produce vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones. However, it's crucial to balance this need with the risks, and to protect ourselves from excessive UV radiation. This can be done by wearing sun cream, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and by seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day.