THE EFFECTS OF SOLAR ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION ON THE HUMAN BODY

Abstract

An increase in biologically active solar ultraviolet-B radiation has been reported in the middle latitude of the southern and northern hemispheres during the past decade due to stratospheric ozone depletion. The effects of solar ultraviolet radiation on the human body are described with action spectra such as DNA damage, sunburn and hazard to the eyes. Distinctly different properties of solar ultraviolet-B and ultraviolet-A radiation are compared with daily and seasonal variations. The diffuse characteristic of ultraviolet radiation is also discussed. In relation to protection from solar ultraviolet radiation for the human body, solar ultraviolet irradiances measured are presented in typical outdoor environments showing the usefulness of the shade of a tree, a cap and/or a hat.