Dr. Cornelia Balderman, senior scientific advisor at the German Federal Office for Radiation Protection, advised wearing sunglasses as a precautionary measure to protect the eyes from the risk of cataracts. In a new episode of the program "Science in Five," presented by Veesmitha Gupta Smit and broadcast by the World Health Organization on its official platforms, Dr. Balderman explained the risks of ultraviolet (UV) rays and their impact on health, as well as preventive steps to avoid their harm.
**Ultraviolet Rays**
Ultraviolet rays come from the sun but can also be artificially generated, for example in tanning beds. The danger of UV rays lies in the fact that they are imperceptible and cannot be seen, thus they can cause more health effects and negative health impacts. For instance, in the short term, they can cause sunburns or eye inflammation, while in the long term, they can lead to premature skin aging and skin cancer or eye cancer. Dr. Balderman stated that UV rays are classified as human carcinogens because they damage DNA, and much of the UV radiation severely harms cells in a way that cannot be repaired. Therefore, damaged cells can deteriorate and transform into cancerous cells. The only positive effect of UV rays is the synthesis of vitamin D in the human body, so exposure to the sun should be approached with caution.
**Easy Preventive Measures**
Dr. Balderman emphasized the necessity of taking preventive measures against UV rays, as they can cause skin cancer, especially in children. She pointed out that it is very easy to avoid excessive exposure to UV rays by seeking shade, using an umbrella, or even avoiding going out at noon. Secondly, one should wear clothing that can cover the body, such as a wide-brimmed hat, and use sunglasses for the eyes. Thirdly, using clothing and shoes and/or sunscreen can help protect the body. Dr. Balderman added that vitamin D is very important for human health, but sun protection measures do not mean preventing the synthesis of vitamin D, as the body can still produce it, albeit more slowly. Thus, the key point is not to go out in the sun solely for the purpose of obtaining vitamin D, especially since there are dietary supplements available to treat vitamin D deficiency, while there are no tablets to treat skin cancer.
**Individuals with Dark Skin**
Dr. Balderman explained that individuals with dark skin do not suffer from UV sensitivity like those with lighter skin, indicating that the lighter the skin, the earlier it experiences negative effects from UV exposure. Therefore, it is extremely important for a person to know their skin type, how sensitive it is to the sun, and when they could get sunburned. This knowledge allows them to effectively manage their sun exposure and outdoor time.
**Electronic Applications**
In response to a question about how to protect against UV rays since they cannot be felt or seen, Dr. Balderman said the solution lies in relying on the UV index, which ranges from one to eleven and above. She explained that the higher the number on the index, the greater the intensity of UV rays. Dr. Balderman advised that before going out, one should check weather apps that display the UV index, or use the Sun Smart app, which shows times for sun protection.
**Shade Alone Is Not Enough**
Dr. Balderman warned that while shade reduces UV rays, it does not block them entirely, meaning that they are scattered and thus a person can still be exposed to them even in the shade. She added that the body can get sunburned or achieve tanning or vitamin D production in the shade. Therefore, shade alone does not provide 100% protection from UV rays.
Dr. Balderman concluded that the essence of her advice does not mean completely avoiding sun exposure but rather recommends that individuals be aware of their sun exposure levels and how to smartly protect themselves from its potential harm.
