Heat waves and episodes of extreme solar radiation are severely affecting various regions of Spain, with a particular impact on the Canary Islands. Health authorities have raised the alert level and stressed the importance of taking protective measures to prevent associated health problems, such as sunburn, heat exhaustion, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaches extreme levels, both on sunny and cloudy days, and poses a serious threat to the population. The Directorate General of Public Health emphasizes that, even when there are clouds, UV rays easily penetrate the atmosphere, exacerbating skin and eye damage. Therefore, protecting yourself is not just seasonal advice, but an essential daily routine for all citizens.
What is solar radiation and how does it affect health?
Solar radiation includes visible light, infrared rays and ultraviolet rays.The latter are the most worrisome, as they can cause burns, damage the DNA of skin cells, and accelerate aging. They can also cause eye damage and, in the long term, increase the risk of cataracts and skin tumors.
There are three main types of ultraviolet radiation: UVA, UVB and UVCWhile the ozone layer almost completely blocks UVC rays, UVA and UVB rays do reach the Earth's surface. UVA rays are primarily responsible for premature aging and also penetrate through glass and clouds., while the UVB rays cause burns and promote the production of vitamin D., but they also increase the chance of developing skin cancer.
Risks associated with sun exposure
The damage caused by solar radiation to the skin and eyes is cumulative. Repeated sunburns, especially in childhood, significantly increase the risk of developing melanoma and other skin tumors in adulthood. Furthermore, prolonged exposure can accelerate the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and cataracts.
The consequences of overexposure are immediate and long-term:
- Sunburn, redness and pain
- Eye injuries such as cataracts or retinal damage
- Allergic, photoallergic or phototoxic skin reactions
- Premature aging, appearance of spots and loss of skin elasticity
- Increased risk of skin cancer, especially after years of cumulative exposure
Extreme risk situations: Canary Islands and other affected areas
The Canary Islands have the highest levels of UV radiation in Spain throughout the year, which worsens in summer. Due to the subtropical latitude, altitude, and sun reflection on surfaces such as water or sand, the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and the Ministry of Health have recommended avoiding any direct exposure to the sun, even during off-peak hours and on cloudy days.
In Zaragoza, for example, temperatures have reached 38°C and the UV solar radiation index has reached values of 10, considered very high. This scenario requires extreme caution, especially for children, the elderly, and workers who spend long hours outdoors.
Recommendations for protecting yourself from solar radiation
Health authorities insist on adopting physical protection measures and practicing responsible sun habits:
- Avoid sun exposure at all times on extreme radiation alert days
- Remember that clouds do not completely block UV radiation: Protect yourself even when the sky is cloudy
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+), renewing it every two hours and after bathing or sweating
- Wear long-sleeved clothing, light fabrics and dark colors, which block ultraviolet radiation better
- Carries wide-brimmed hats and approved sunglasses with UV filter
- Seek shade whenever possible and limit outdoor activities
- constantly hydrate and pay special attention to children, the elderly and vulnerable people
In the workplace and during car journeys, protection remains essential.Vehicle windows don't always filter out all UVA rays, so it's advisable to wear sunscreen and cover your skin, especially if you're taking long trips or driving for work.
Which population groups are most vulnerable?
People with light-colored skin, hair, and eyes, those taking photosensitive medications, people over 50, and those with a family history of skin cancer are at particularly high risk from sun exposure. Protecting children is essential: the use of sunglasses with approved filters is recommended from an early age, and direct exposure should be avoided whenever possible. If they are reluctant to wear sunglasses, wearing hats or wide-brimmed visors helps prevent eye damage.
Keys to strengthening protection at home and at work
Bioclimatic design and the use of passive measures, such as cross ventilation and exterior shading systems, are an effective complement to maintaining thermal comfort and reducing the need for artificial air conditioning. Awnings, blinds, and outdoor vegetation help prevent the direct entry of solar radiation, keeping homes cooler and safer during heat waves.
Experts advise ventilating during the early hours of the day and late afternoon, keeping windows and blinds closed during the middle of the day to prevent the entry of heat and UV rays.
Sun damage is cumulative: the importance of daily prevention
Sun damage, even if it doesn't show up immediately, can have long-term consequences., such as the appearance of melanomas, wrinkles, dark spots, and immune problems. Sun protection should be part of your daily routine, not just during summers or vacations.
With solar radiation levels as high as they are today, following these recommendations is essential to avoid negative health effects, especially in areas where the sun is particularly intense and sun damage occurs even on cloudy or breezy days.
The population must be informed and take constant precautions against solar radiation.Adopting responsible habits, protecting your skin and eyes, and paying special attention to the most vulnerable groups are the keys to enjoying summer and spending time outdoors without taking unnecessary risks.
