Beyond Violet
Our African sun draws many visitors who bask in its warmth and beauty. Unfortunately, within in its warming rays lurks an unseen and often dangerous energy known as Ultraviolet.
Ultraviolet is a description of the band of sunrays of which the length is shorter than visible light, but longer than X-rays, and include UVA, UVB and UVC. The name literally means “beyond violet” – from the Latin ultra meaning “beyond”, and violet being the colour of the shortest wavelengths of visible light.
Although some sun exposure is necessary for certain health benefits, too much can lead to sunburn, certain cancers and direct DNA damage. South Africa has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world after Australia. It is also one of the most common cancers in the country, with almost 20,000 new cases each year.
“The good news is that skin cancer can be prevented,” says Sue Janse van Rensburg, CEO of the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). “Make sure you and your loved ones play safe all year round, but especially in summer time when the sun’s rays are the harshest. Make informed choices on selecting the right sunscreen, protective clothing and staying in the shade.”
The UV Index (UVI)
The UVI is a simple measure of the UV radiation level at the Earth’s surface. It has been designed to indicate the potential for adverse health effects, and to encourage people to protect themselves. The Index predicts UV intensity levels on a scale of 0 to 10+, where 0 indicates a minimal risk of overexposure and 10+ means a very high risk. Taking notice of the UV ratings on a daily basis can help determine which preventative measures to take to help avoid sunburn, cataracts and possibly skin cancer.
Most of South Africa falls in the 8-10, very high risk category.
Go to www.koolasun.co.za/sa-uv-index.html for a breakdown of SA’s daily ratings.
Spot the Spot
CANSA advises checking your skin carefully every month and asking a family member or friend to examine your back and the top of your head. If you notice any of these warming signs, see a doctor or dermatologist immediately:
• Asymmetry – a mole or mark with one half unlike the other. Common moles are round and symmetrical.
• Border irregularities – scalloped or poorly defined edges. Common moles have smooth, even borders.
• Colour variations and inconsistency – tan, brown, black, red, white and blue. Common moles are usually a single shade of brown or black.
• Diameter larger than 6 mm.
Furthermore, you should limit your time in the sun, especially between 10h00 and 15h00, when the sun’s rays are most dangerous. It’s best to stay in the shade as much as possible or under an umbrella.
Also bear in mind that UV radiation can penetrate fabric. Cover up by wearing thickly-woven hats with wide brims and loose-fitting clothes made of tightly-woven fabric that are cool, but will block out harmful UV rays. Swimwear, umbrellas and tinted motor glass bearing the CANSA Seal of Recognition should also be part of your protection kit. Also use sunglasses with lenses (UV400) that are recognised by CANSA for effective UV protection.
Sun Facts
• Protecting your skin during the first 18 years of life can reduce the risk of some types of skin cancer by up to 78%.
• UV rays are not the same as heat – you can get overexposed even in cool weather. Up to 80% of the sun’s rays can penetrate light clouds, mist, and fog.
• One severe sunburn during the first 15 years of life can double the risk of skin cancer.
• Surfaces reflect the sun’s rays – concrete reflects 10% to 12% of the sun’s rays, fresh snow up to 95% of the sun’s rays and water 5%.
Story by Lucy Balona / CANSA
