In light of prolonged hot weather with very high ultraviolet (UV) rays posing an increased risk of health problems, residents are now advised by health experts to take the initiative to protect themselves from UV damage triggered by much sun exposure.  

Medical experts warn that high UV levels can accelerate skin aging and pose more severe threats to human health like skin cancer.

According to Viet Nam's National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, residents in Ha Noi and Da Nang are likely to continue suffering from very high UV levels in the face of soaring mercury blanketing many parts of Viet Nam this week as a dermatologist has cautioned against going outside at noon.

Data from Weather Online, a UK-based meteorological services provider, said the UV index in Da Nang rose to 11 between 10 and 14 July while AccuWeather predicts that it would reach 13 this weekend.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns the UV index reading 8 to 10 can burn skin within 25 minutes. Meanwhile, the UV Index reading of 11 or more puts you at a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, and people may burn if they are exposed to direct sunlight during the hot weather in 10 minutes. The UV Index of 12 means extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure.

Over recent days, there has been a marked increase in the number of patients admitted to the Da Nang Dermatology Hospital for medical examinations and treatment of sun-damaged skin.

The hospital’s Department of Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery receives dozens of patients suffering from UV rays-caused mild sunburn every day.

Dr Luong Quang Tham, Deputy Head of the Department of Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery, said exposure to UV rays can cause premature aging of the skin and signs of sun damage such as wrinkles, leathery skin, liver spots, actinic keratosis, and solar elastosis.

UV rays can also cause eye problems. They can cause the cornea (on the front of the eye) to become inflamed or burned. They can also lead to the formation of cataracts (clouding of the lens of the eye), and pterygium (tissue growth on the surface of the eye), both of which can impair vision.

In addition, exposure to UV rays can also weaken the immune system. As a result, the body has a harder time fending off infections, which can lead to health problems such as skin cancer.

“Staying out of the sun is the best way to avoid sun damage. Other precautions should be taken for both skin and eyes include using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding direct sunlight around midday when UV rays are strongest”, Dr Tham noted.

By PHAN CHUNG – Translated by M.DUNG