Sunlight provides vitamin D, and it has been shown to even lessen depression. However, there are several dangers to too much sun exposure. Sun exposure should be done in moderation, and people should educate themselves on the dangers of too much sunlight.
The most obvious damage to skin from overexposure to sunlight is a sunburn—it causes red, sore skin that may bubble up and flake off over several days. Yet, there are several other issues that can occur. Sometimes, too much sun can give someone a rash or blisters. This can ruin a vacation and make it difficult to sleep. Over time, too much sun exposure can increase the number of spots on the skin. It can also create areas of the skin that are discolored.
The worst result of too much sun exposure is the risk of developing cancer. This risk comes from UVA (ultraviolet A rays) and UVB (ultraviolet B rays)—both types can cause skin damage and cancer. The UVA rays, however, penetrate deeper into the skin than the UVB rays. If someone spends an entire life being exposed to too much sun, the possibility of developing cancer increases.
Be careful!
Although some sunlight provides vitamin D for the body, too much can cause additional problems for the body. Eyes can be damaged by the sun if proper care is not taken. Cataracts is another disease that can be caused by too much sunlight—this disease clouds up the eye and makes it difficult to see.
The heat from sun can create many issues for the body. People who are spending the day in the sun may become fatigued (tired); they might also pass out from dehydration if they do not get enough water to drink. Even worse, someone can become overheated and suffer from heat stroke. In this case, the body temperature reaches dangerous temperatures. This can even be fatal.
Prevention
There are many ways to enjoy the sunlight and be safe at the same time. The American Cancer Society recommends several strategies for safe sun exposure. Their phrase, “Slip! Slop! Slap! and Wrap!” can help people to remember how to avoid too much sun exposure. They suggest that people should “Slip on a shirt. Slop on sunscreen. Slap on a hat. Wrap on sunglasses to protect the eyes and skin around them.” These small steps allow people to enjoy the sun and be safe at the same time.
The American Cancer Society also suggests that one way of avoiding the sunlight is to find some shade. The direct sunlight is not good for the skin after so long, and the shade will keep the sun off during the strongest sunlight hours: between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. They also recommend avoiding tanning beds since they also produce UVA and UVB rays.
Which ONE statement below should NOT be included in a summary of Passage 2?
A Sunlight comes from UVA and UVB rays.
B Sunlight can be enjoyed if moderation and precautions are taken when in the sun.
C Sunlight can be harmful to skin if people are exposed to too much sunlight.
D Sunlight can be important for eyes and certain organs.