UV rays. Why are they dangerous and how to protect from them?

Mild exposure to UV rays is usually considered to have some benefits, but abuse can cause several problems for health. Head of legal security section at the state hygienic and anti-pandemic agency of RA Ministry of Health Nune Bakunts has outlined the positive and negative effects of UV rays sharing on how to protect from them when required.

So when are they beneficial?

UV rays cause vitamin D to be synthesized under the skin, which is one of the key factors that secure the growth and development of the body. In cold countries, where few sunny days may happen, people may suffer vitamin D deficit that will eventually end up with several problems for health. That is why suntan and solarium are recommended ways of acquiring the necessary volume of vitamin D in those countries.

However, Armenia can't be listed among the countries as mentioned above, as the UV rays reaching here even in winter months have enough strength, not to speak about the summer! So you can hardly find people suffering vitamin D deficit in our country. Hence, suntan and solarium, which are means of acquiring extra UV rays, may cause several problems for health in Armenia.

What kind of problems are they referred to?

Long suntan or stay under the straight UV rays may cause severe damage to your health, Nune Bakunts warns.

First of all, you may suffer a heatstroke as a result of a long exposure to UV rays, and that will end up with a big stress for organism. UV rays may also be harmful for your eyes and skin, and the skin is… The skin is a completely different story.  Even sunburn will not leave you as jeopardized as the cancer-causing effect of extra UV rays will do. Because they are said to be the key risk factor as far as melanoma is concerned.

Therefore, caution with UV rays and solarium is advised in countries where warm weather predominates.

How to protect from UV rays?

• Avoid straight UV rays and stay in shadow during the hottest hours of the day – from 12։00 till 18։00.

• Put on sunglasses and a hat when leaving home to protect your eyes and head respectively.

• Wear light-colored clothes made of natural material.

• Drink a lot of water. Healthy people are advised to drink at least 1.4 liters of water daily during summer months. As to those with cardiovascular, kidney and other diseases, consultation with doctor regarding advisable volumes of water to be consumed daily is recommended.

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