However, excessive exposure to UV radiation (either from the sun or from artificial sources such as sun beds) is associated with sunburn, accelerated skin aging and different types of skin cancer.
Between 50 and 90% of skin cancers are caused by excessive UV exposure. According to the International agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), approximately 200,000 cases of melanoma and 46,000 melanoma-associated deaths are reported worldwide every year. In addition, 2.8 million cases of squamous cell carcinoma and 10 million cases of basal cell carcinoma were considered related to excessive UV radiation.
Less well known is that excessive UV radiation is linked to reduction of the immune system effectiveness, cataract and other eye diseases.
The UICC is committed to the implementation of strong measures against UV overexposure and exposure through the effective implementation of the WHO INTERSUN program.
Enjoy the sun without getting roasted: stop using sun beds and avoid excessive sun exposure. Remember to use sunscreens and protective clothing as an effective cancer prevention method.
Love your skin: learn more about how you can prevent skin cancer here!