Editorial

Solar ultraviolet radiation exposure and human health in South Africa: Finding a balance

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Caradee Y Wright, Mary Norval, Beverley Summers, Lester M Davids, Gerrie Coetzee, Matthew Oriowo

Abstract


In considering the likelihood of South Africa (SA) attaining the 2015 Millennium Development Goals, many health issues require urgent attention. The adverse effect of insufficient or excessive exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) may exacerbate an already stressed public health service. These concerns become important when considering climate variability and patterns of behaviour.

Authors' affiliations

Caradee Y Wright, Climate Studies, Modelling and Environmental Health Research Group, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria

Mary Norval, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh Medical School, Edinburgh, Scotland

Beverley Summers, Photobiology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Medunsa Campus, University of Limpopo

Lester M Davids, Department of Human Biology, Medical School, University of Cape Town

Gerrie Coetzee, South African Weather Service, Pretoria

Matthew Oriowo, African Vision Research Institute, International Center for Eyecare Education, Durban

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Keywords

solar UV radiation; human health

Cite this article

South African Medical Journal 2012;102(8):665-666.

Article History

Date submitted: 2012-04-12
Date published: 2012-06-28

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