On metal not a problem, on living tissue it can be a problem. The only things holding these complex molecules together are electrons. When ultraviolet radiation shines on living tissue, photochemical reactions, DNA lesions and other types of damage occur. Typically the majority of lesions in human cells are removed and repaired at a relatively high rate but cell death and cell mutations also occur. Approximately 90 per cent of all non-melanoma skin cancers can be attributed to UV exposure.
Solar exposure is established as a major causal factor of melanoma in light skinned populations.
In British Columbia the incidence of all three types of skin cancers is increasing at a disturbing rate, with B.C. having the highest melanoma rates in Canada. This disease causes detriment to human life in both quality and quantity, and creates an ever increasing financial burden on the health care system. Recent research suggests non-Hodgkin s lymphoma is significantly associated with exposure to UV radiation. A variety of serious non-cancerous skin diseases result from UV exposure. UV exposure is one cause of cataracts and corneal injuries can occur from UV exposure.