Health Department releases report on solar ultraviolet radiation in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – Climate change may lead to more harmful solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure among residents of Durham Region, and the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and other Indigenous Peoples with whom we share these lands. Continued exposure to harmful solar UVR can lead to the risk of sunburn, eye damage, skin cancers and suppression of the immune system.

To help learn, prepare for, and act against climate change, Durham Region Health Department has released the report, Assessing the Impact of Solar Ultraviolet Radiation, available at durham.ca/ClimateAndHealth. As part of the series Climate Change and Health in Durham Region, this vulnerability assessment explores current and future local health impacts of solar UVR.

The report finds that climate change is expected to increase solar UVR exposure due to a combination of warmer weather, the potential for reduced cloud cover and low uptake of sun-protective behavior by Durham Region residents. Prioritizing sun-protection for infants and children, individuals who sunburn easily, people with a history of sunburn or family history of skin cancer, people using certain medications and people who work outdoors, can help prevent harmful health impacts of solar UVR.

“In general, most of our lifetime exposure to solar UVR happens before we reach 18-years old, when skin is most sensitive to sunburns. Even a single severe sunburn in childhood can increase the risk of developing melanoma later in life,” said Dr. Robert Kyle, Durham Region Medical Officer of Health.

“UVR exposure is highly preventable and prioritizing sun safety among infants and children is essential to protecting their lifelong health and promoting safe habits, especially as climate change intensifies.”

Sun safety also depends on access to shade; the report found unequal access to tree shade among children in the region’s urban municipalities, particularly among those living with low income.

The report also emphasizes that expected increases in solar UVR protections are essential for Durham Region residents who work outdoors when solar UVR is high.

“Increasing awareness about the importance of sun safety is everyone’s responsibility,” said Tara Wheeler, a public health nurse with the Health Department. “Practicing sun safety measures can greatly help to prevent skin cancer and sunburns, and promote healthier futures for our residents.”

To read the report or download a copy, visit durham.ca/ClimateAndHealth. For more information about Health Department programs focused on the environment and health visit durham.ca/EnvironmentAndHealth.

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For more information, please contact the Health Department.