UV skin protection 'not just about cloudless days'

Islanders are being reminded about the importance of protecting themselves from skin cancer.

Public Health and Meteorology departments from Guernsey and Jersey have been working together to explain what Ultraviolet Radiation (UV) is and how over-exposure could lead to skin cancer.

Paul Aked, head of meteorology at the Jersey Met Office, said UV rays were invisible to the human eye, but there were two types that reached the ground, UVA and UVB.

He added the highest levels of UV were typically between 11:00 BST and 15:00 but weather and cloud could play a part.

"However UV can still get through some cloud, so it's not just about the cloudless days.

"Sand and water are also good reflectors which increase exposure too," he added.

UV levels are measured on a scale known as the Ultraviolet Index (UVI), a standard, international measure of ultraviolet radiation.

Di Mathews, public health strategic screening lead in Guernsey, said the weather was a popular topic of conversation but also an important one.

"Both UVA and UVB can be harmful, UVA damages the skin, causing aging and, along with UVB causes sunburn which together increase the risk of skin cancer."

"Skin cancer rates in Guernsey and Jersey are very high, higher than the South of England, so understanding UV and the UVI is very important."

Ms Mathews added: "The best way to protect yourself from skin cancer is to cover up with loose fitting clothing, wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses, stay inside, and use a sun cream of Factor 30 or above."

A States of Guernsey wellbeing survey showed that nearly half of Guernsey residents had at least one episode of sunburn in the last year.

It said 73% of people, aged 16 to 24 years, reported having been sunburnt in the previous year.

Follow BBC Guernsey on X, external and Facebook, external. Follow BBC Jersey on X, external and Facebook, external. Send your story ideas to [email protected], external.