Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun can seriously harm human health. Mild exposure can lead to sunburn. More extended exposure to the sun may result in premature aging and discoloration of the skin and, ultimately, skin cancer. These health effects have only been made more acute by the destruction of the ozone layer which protects the earth from the sun's ultraviolet radiation. Through the Clean Air Act regulations and participation in international accords such as the Montreal protocol, the United States is participating in a worldwide effort to reduce the amount of ozone-depleting gasses released into the atmosphere. The EPA and other agencies also promote awareness of the dangers of sun exposure and the safety precautions such as minimizing exposure and using sunscreen.

Recommended EPA Web pages

• Sunwise Program: UV Index
  This page provides information on the Ultraviolet Index.
• SunWise Program
  Provides information on protecting yourself from overexposure to the sun through the use of classroom-, school-, and community-based components.
• SunWise Program: Health Effects of Overexposure to the Sun
  This fact sheet provides a quick overview of the major health problems linked to overexposure to UV radiation.

Children's Health
School Environments

Exposure
Acute Exposure, Cumulative Exposure, Dermal Exposure, Dietary Exposure, Exposure Assessment, Exposure Route, Threshold Level

Food Safety
Irradiated Food

Health Assessment

Health Effects
Asthma, Genetic Damage, Respiratory Disease

Occupational Health
Worker Protection, Worker Safety

Seniors' Health
Aging Initiative

Sun Protection

Toxicity
Chronic Toxicity, Dermal Toxicity, Toxicological Profile