Sunlight causes cancer - here we hear from experts on how to protect yourself.


Using sunscreen is widely considered one of the best ways to protect your health.


More than 80 percent of melanoma skin cancer cases are caused by sunburn, and this number is increasing every year. It is estimated that 1.5 million new cases of skin cancer are recorded worldwide each year, and that this number will increase by half (50 percent) by 2040.


But despite these harsh facts about the dangers of sun exposure and constant public health warnings, there is confusion about how and when to apply sunscreen.


Why should we protect our skin from the sun?

When we are exposed to the sun, ultraviolet (UV) rays damage the DNA, proteins and other molecules found in our skin cells, says Richard Gallo, a professor of medicine at the University of California.


According to Gallo, moderate exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight helps skin cells produce vitamin D. But if we expose our skin to the sun for too long, it tries to protect itself by darkening by producing melanin. He adds


"If exposure to sunlight is too high, the skin cannot protect itself and you burn."


Gallo says this can cause DNA damage in our cells, which can lead to premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.


Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the main cause of the most common types of skin cancer.


"Sunscreens with a lower SPF (sun protection factor) block the rays to some extent," says Gallo, "but in many cases, they still allow all the harmful effects to occur. . Sunlight is potentially carcinogenic, even in very small amounts."