Top 3 health effects of sun exposure (and how to avoid it)

December 13th, 2016 · Published to Shade Solutions

Here in Australia, we certainly experience a lot of sunny weather. Being out in the sun can provide health benefits as sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D. However, excessive exposure to the sun is not a good thing as there are many adverse health problems associated with it.

If you spend time outdoors without sun protection, you stand at risk of developing many health problems. How do I know you ask? I may not be a health specialist, but I am a shade solution provider. The reason why customers buy shade solutions from me is because they realise that excessive sun exposure can lead to health problems.

Continue reading this article as I list out the top 3 health effects of sun exposure. I’ll also touch up on how you can avoid them with the help of shade structures on the Gold Coast. You can always thank me by purchasing high quality shade structures from us at Global Shade.

1. Skin cancer

The biggest health problem associated with excessive exposure to the sun is skin cancer. Australia experiences an abnormally high amount of UV radiation from the sun and this is the primary cause of skin cancer. Skin cancer is a serious condition which causes deterioration of the immune system, damage to DNA and ultimately, death.

According to the AIHW, in 2016 there will be an estimated 13,283 new cases of melanoma skin cancer diagnosed in Australia. Unfortunately, this number is up from 2012 figures which saw 12,036 new cases of melanoma skin cancer diagnosed.

2. Sunburn, actinic keratosis and skin aging

Too much exposure to the sun can also cause you to develop sunburns. Sunburn is characterised by an inflammation and redness of the skin, usually accompanied by a burning sensation. Sunburn will also cause your skin to peel and fall off.

Excessive sun exposure can also cause actinic keratosis – the development of rashes, flakes, dryness and itchiness of the skin. While these conditions may not be life threatening, they will cause you a significant amount of discomfort.

Too much exposure to the sun can also cause your skin to age prematurely.  If you spend too much time in the sun without adequate protection measures, you skin will tan, develop wrinkles and become hard and leathery. You’ll look much older than you otherwise are.

3. Cataract and eye damage

The sun’s UV radiation can also cause significant damage to your eyes. Cataract is one of the leading eye problems associated with excessive sun exposure. Cataract starts off with blurry and cloudy vision and if left untreated, it will result in complete loss of vision.

How to prevent these problems

To prevent the health problems associated with excessive sun exposure, you must take necessary protection measures. Always ensure to keep your skin covered whenever you step out into the sun with the help of hats and sunglasses. Make sure to do this all the time – whether you’re around home or out for business.

You should also apply sunscreen to all exposed parts of your body every day before heading out in the sun. When choosing a sunscreen, always go for one with a high SPF level as they offer maximum UV protection. I recommend you to choose a sunscreen with SPF level of 30 – this will offer up to 97% UVR protection.

Alternatively, you can also install shade structures on the Gold Coast to protect yourself and your loved ones from the sun. At Global Shade, we offer a range of shade structures on the Gold Coast, which are treated to offer up to 99% UVR protection. Whatever type of shade structure you may be looking for – shade sails, canopies, awnings PVC blinds and outdoor umbrellas, we offer them all. By installing our high quality shade structures on the Gold Coast around your home or business location, you can ensure maximum protection from the harsh Australian sun.

Conclusion:

Excessive sun exposure can cause skin cancer, sunburns, actinic ketosis, skin aging, cataract and eye disorders. As such, you must always ensure that you’re well protected whenever you step outdoors. To protect yourself, you should always apply sunscreen and you should make use of hats and sunglasses. Alternatively, you can also invest in shade structures to enjoy complete protection from the sun.

For the best shade structures on the Gold Coast, look no further than Global Shade. Whether you need shade sails, awnings, canopies, blinds or outdoor umbrellas, we offer them all. Drop us an email at info@globalshade.com.au with your requirements and we’ll be glad to assist you.