UK UV Index Climbs to 8, Raising Skin Cancer Risks

4 articles · Updated · BBC.com · May 26

UV levels across much of the UK are unusually high for this time of year, with the UV Index reaching 8 in conditions that are normally exceptional even in summer.
An index of 8 means very high UV exposure, which can damage skin-cell DNA, speed skin ageing and raise risks of cataracts and skin cancer, including melanoma — the UK's fifth most common cancer.
SPF 30 sunscreen with at least 4-star UVA protection, applied 30 minutes before going outside and reapplied every 2 hours, is among the NHS's main recommendations alongside shade, clothing and sunglasses.
Cloud, wind and cooler temperatures do not remove the danger: UV can still penetrate thin cloud, and children and people with brown skin also need protection.
WHO guidance says protection is needed from UV 3-5 and extra protection from 8-10, with the strongest UK sun typically falling between 11:00 and 15:00.

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