What is the effect of increased UV-B radiation on human health?
Current research in Canada, Europe, and Australia has confirmed the importance of intermittent solar UV radiation as a risk factor for skin cancer. Studies have shown that high levels of intermittent UV-B exposure during childhood and adolescence can result in an elevated risk for malignant melanoma in later life. Canada’s ozone watch and the UV index programs promote solar avoidance, especially for children. A long-term effect, with 10% depletion of the ozone layer, could lead to an increase of 26% in non-melanoma (non-fatal) skin cancers around the world. The 1991 report of the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) Environmental Effects Assessment Panel predicted an additional 300,000 cases per year worldwide. New skin cancer cases cost $50 million to treat in 1992 alone. The same amount of ozone depletion would be associated with over one million additional cases of cataracts per year worldwide. Environmental Effects of Ozone Depletion: 1991 Update, Panel Report Pursuant to Ar
