Santa Cruz de Tenerife 20 Feb. (Europa Press) –
The General Directorate of Public Health announced on Thursday that, based on information supplied by the State Meteorology Agency (AEMET) and the indicators outlined in this plan, the current risk level due to ultraviolet radiation in the Canary Islands is elevated at this time, which is quite atypical for this season. Therefore, the public has been urged to take precautions against sun exposure.
In addition, a statement emphasised the significance of sun protection, noting that this “duty” should not only be observed during the summer but throughout the entire year, including overcast days.
The Ministry of Health of the Government of the Canary Islands, via the General Directorate of Public Health of the SCS, coordinates the preventative actions plan regarding the health effects of ultraviolet radiation exposure, which includes a range of recommendations aimed at minimising the health impacts associated with ultraviolet radiation (UV) in accordance with the various risk levels outlined in the plan.
When the health risk due to solar radiation exposure hits a high threshold, it is advisable to wear wide-brimmed hats and clothing that covers the arms and legs, use appropriate sunglasses, and most importantly, to protect children from direct sunlight.
Furthermore, the experts from the General Directorate of Public Health have highlighted that sun damage is “cumulative” and that excessive exposure and burns during childhood can elevate the risk of certain types of skin cancer many years, or even decades later.
They also pointed out that even on cloudy days, solar rays permeate through the clouds, and although the sensation of heat may be reduced, this is also true on breezy days.
The Canary Islands rank as the region with the highest UV radiation levels throughout the year, according to AEMET data. UV radiation is a type of radiation emitted by the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds, which is part of the non-visible spectrum of sunlight.
Risks of Ultraviolet Radiation
The short-term effects of UV radiation can vary and include DNA damage, sunburn, phototoxic and photoallergic reactions, and immunosuppression, all of which may be considered cancer risk factors and could lead to the reactivation of viruses, such as herpes simplex.
Consequently, overexposure to UV radiation may also result in severe health issues, including cancer—the most recognised being melanoma, alongside basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Moreover, the likelihood of eye ailments can also rise if proper eye protection is not utilised.
UV radiation can have detrimental effects on anyone, according to the Ministry, yet the risks are heightened for individuals exposed for prolonged periods during the day, especially those with a history of multiple solar burns throughout their lives, among other circumstances.
