Since the appearance of an ozone hole over the Antarctic in the early
1980s, Americans have become aware of the health threats posed by ozone
depletion, which decreases our atmosphere's natural protection from
the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This fact sheet provides a
quick overview of the major health problems linked to overexposure to
UV radiation:
Understanding these risks and taking a few sensible precautions will
help you to enjoy the sun while lowering your chances of sun-related
health problems later in life.
Skin Cancer
The incidence of skin cancer in the United States has reached epidemic
proportions. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their
lifetime, and one American dies every hour from this devastating disease.
Medical research is helping us understand the causes and effects of
skin cancer. Many health and education groups are working to reduce
the incidence of this disease, of which 1.3 million cases have been
predicted for 2000 alone, according to The American Cancer Society.
Melanoma
Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, is also one of the
fastest growing types of cancer in the United States. Many dermatologists
believe there may be a link between childhood sunburns and melanoma
later in life. Melanoma cases in this country have more than doubled
in the past 2 decades, and the rise is expected to continue.
Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers
Nonmelanoma skin cancers are less deadly than melanomas. Nevertheless,
left untreated, they can spread, causing disfigurement and more serious
health problems. More than 1.2 million Americans will develop nonmelanoma
skin cancer in 2000 while more than 1,900 will die from the disease.
There are two primary types of nonmelanoma skin cancers. These two
cancers have a cure rate as high as 95 percent if detected and treated
early. The key is to watch for signs and seek medical treatment.
Basal Cell Carcinomas are the most common type of skin cancer
tumors. They usually appear as small, fleshy bumps or nodules on the
head and neck, but can occur on other skin areas. Basal cell carcinoma
grows slowly, and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. It can,
however, penetrate to the bone and cause considerable damage.
Squamous Cell Carcinomas are tumors that may appear as nodules
or as red, scaly patches. This cancer can develop into large masses,
and unlike basal cell carcinoma, it can spread to other parts of the
body.
Other Skin Damage
Other UV-related skin disorders include actinic keratoses and premature
aging of the skin. Actinic keratoses are skin growths that occur on
body areas exposed to the sun. The face, hands, forearms, and the "V"
of the neck are especially susceptible to this type of lesion. Although
premalignant, actinic keratoses are a risk factor for squamous cell
carcinoma. Look for raised, reddish, rough-textured growths and seek
prompt medical attention if you discover them. Chronic exposure to the
sun also causes premature aging, which over time can make the skin become
thick, wrinkled, and leathery. Since it occurs gradually, often manifesting
itself many years after the majority of a person's sun exposure, premature
aging is often regarded as an unavoidable, normal part of growing older.
With proper protection from UV radiation, however, most premature aging
of the skin can be avoided.
Cataracts and Other Eye Damage
Cataracts are a form of eye damage in which a loss of transparency
in the lens of the eye clouds vision. If left untreated, cataracts can
lead to blindness. Research has shown that UV radiation increases the
likelihood of certain cataracts. Although curable with modern eye surgery,
cataracts diminish the eyesight of millions of Americans and cost billions
of dollars in medical care each year. Other kinds of eye damage include
pterygium (i.e., tissue growth that can block vision), skin cancer around
the eyes, and degeneration of the macula (i.e., the part of the retina
where visual perception is most acute). All of these problems can be
lessened with proper eye protection from UV radiation.
Immune Suppression
Scientists have found that overexposure to UV radiation may suppress
proper functioning of the body's immune system and the skin's natural
defenses. All people, regardless of skin color, might be vulnerable
to effects including impaired response to immunizations, increased sensitivity
to sunlight, and reactions to certain medications.
For more information on UV and health effects, see the Publications
section.
Health
Effects of Overexposure to the Sun