Exposure to the sun is essential for vitamin D production in the body, which supports calcium absorption for building strong and healthier bones. But have you ever wondered how sun exposure might negatively affect your health?
Our JHAH experts highlight the health issues related to sun exposure and how you can protect yourself from the damaging effect of sun rays.
Ultraviolet rays, or UV rays that come from the sun, are an invisible form of radiation. This can pass through your skin and damage skin cells. They can also cause eye problems, wrinkles, skin spots and skin cancer. Unexpectedly, this is not only limited to hot seasons or clear days.
UV rays can affect your health in a variety of ways. It can cause skin damage during any season or at any temperature. Exposure to sun rays can also cause eye problems, premature skin aging, and weakening of the immune system. Furthermore, it can damage the skin and may even lead to skin cancer.
The skin is the body’s largest organ. It protects us against heat, sunlight, injury and infection. It also helps regulate body temperature, stores water and fat, and produces vitamin D. Skin damage caused by sun exposure include:
Sun exposure can lead to the formation of eye cataracts. A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye. The clouded areas of the lens block some light from reaching the retina and reduce vision. The condition is common in older people. Sun exposure, however, is a leading cause of developing the condition at an early age.
Repeated exposure to UV radiation can also damage the body’s immune system. The immune system is responsible for protecting the body from germs and other foreign “invaders.” Sunburns can suppress immune functions in people of all skin types.
Skin cancer and other health issues related to sun exposure are almost totally preventable. You can protect your skin from sun exposure by following these tips: