We'll share some facts about UV rays and the power of the sun, and show you how you can enjoy outdoor fun and stay healthy just by being sun sensible. Most of us enjoy outdoor activities under the sun, but we also realize that we have to be cautious in the face of this dazzling source of energy. That's when UV-B rays are most intense and can cause serious sunburn. Reflection from snow, ice, sand and water can also increase the risk of damage to your skin and eyes, so take extra care when participating in activities such as boating or spring skiing. And remember, these potentially dangerous ultraviolet rays also come from sun lamps, not just directly from the sun.
Children have thinner skin than adults and are more sensitive to UV rays.
Children and teenagers also spend more time in the sun, especially in the summer. In fact, two or more serious sunburns as a child or adolescent significantly increases the risk of getting skin cancer later in life. But the reason for the increase in the incidence of skin cancer over the last 20 to 30 years is probably due to over-exposure to the sun earlier in life, and not to the thinning of the ozone layer. Still, the depletion of our ozone layer is going to have a serious impact on future generations. Fortunately, if diagnosed in time, skin cancers can be easily removed by surgery, even malignant melanoma.