Ultraviolet radiation - the ABCs Energy from the sun sustains
all life on earth, and small amounts of Ultraviolet (UV)
radiation are beneficial for people and essential to the
production of vitamin D in the body. However, prolonged human
exposure to solar radiation can result in acute (short-term) and
chronic (long-term) health effects on the skin, eyes and immune
system. Acute effects of excessive UV radiation are sunburn and
suntan. This exposure can lead to premature skin ageing and
wrinkles. Chronic effects can include skin cancers and cataracts
- a permanent clouding of the eye which reduces vision. We can't
see ultraviolet or "UV" rays, as this form of sun energy is
invisible. There are three types of ultraviolet radiation: UVA,
UVB and UVC. UVA radiation is the least energetic form. It can
cause skin aging and wrinkles, and can also damage outdoor
plastics and paint. UVB, which is stronger than UVA, is the most
harmful to us and other life forms. It can cause skin cancer and
cataracts. Both UVB and UVA