Skin Cancer Prevention - Ultraviolet Radiation

What is Ultraviolet Radiation (UV)?

ULtravioet radiation, from the sun is invisible light.

• UV-A causes wrinkling and aging of the skin and some skin cancers. UV-A penetrates the skin more deeply than UV-B.
• UV-B causes skin cancer and cataracts to the eyes, which is the leading cause of blindness in the world. UV-B also is harmful to some plant life forms.
• UV-C never reaches the earth as it is absorbed or filtered out by the atmosphere.

Both UV-A and UV-B rays from the sun are responsible for sunburns and suntans.

Artificial Sources of Ultraviolet Radiation

Tanning beds, tanning booths and tanning lamps are not safe ways to tan. Using tanning equipment can increase the risk of skin cancer, especially if use begins early in life and/or is frequent.
Tanning equipment emits UV radiation and it is sometimes difficult to regulate the amount a person is receiving. Remember no tan is a safe tan.

The UV Index

The UV Index is defined as a measure of the intensity of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. In Canada the UV Index ranges from 0 to 11+. UV levels are influenced by environmental factors:

• Sun height: The higher the sun is in the sky, the higher the UV radiation. The maximum levels occur at noon during the summer months.
• Latitude: Levels of UV radiation are higher as you get closer to the equator.
• Cloud cover: UV levels can still be high because of the water molecules and fine particles in the atmosphere.
• Altitude: UV levels are higher when at high altitudes, such as when downhill skiing. The atmosphere is thinner and less UV is filtered.
• Ozone: Some of the UV is absorbed by the ozone.
• Reflection: UV can be reflected or scattered from ground surfaces. Snow reflects up to 80%, while sand, cement and grass reflects 15% and sea foam reflects about 25%.