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Health Concerns of UV Lights

There are a variety of health concerns about UV, or ultraviolet, light, which describes light that is just outside the visible range. UV lights are used in biological hazard units to help promote a sterile environment, can be absorbed in regular sunlight and are probably most often identified with the threat of skin cancer associated with indoor tanning. While UV light can have beneficial applications, there are health concerns associated with its use.

  1. Genetic Damage

    • Human DNA absorbs certain spectra of UV light, which can cause breaks in it. Not only can this create a variety of health problems if your DNA is no longer functioning and replicating properly, but during the course of repairs cells can start to replicate in an out-of-control manner, starting a cancerous growth. These DNA breakages can also interfere with immune function, eyesight and the development of cataracts as an individual ages.

    Skin Damage and Burns

    • UV light can burn you even if you are behind a glass or plastic shield. Many people overlook the potential for UV-related burns in laboratory settings because the lights, which are often used to help contain biological contamination or keep instruments sterile, do not seem particularly bright. However, if you are working in an area that is exposed to these lights you must have a specifically engineered shield to protect you. UV rays can also dramatically speed the aging process of the skin. They make it more prone to tearing and damage, which can cause wrinkles and a weathered effect that makes skin tough and less able to retain moisture. Even if the UV rays do not cause skin cancer, they still accelerate the development of sunspots and age spots.

    The Cancer Link

    • It is common knowledge that absorbing UV rays from the sun while tanning has a direct link to the development of melanoma, which is skin cancer, the leading cause of death by skin disease, according to Right Health. However, skin cancer cells can also spread to other cells and organs throughout the body, resulting in malignant growths far from the site of the initial exposure to UV rays.

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