Does the amount of UV light that Australians get contribute to their high skin cancer rates? Write in more than 3 paragraphs with claim, reasoning and evidence.
Claim: The amount of UV light that Australians receive contributes to their high skin cancer rates.
Reasoning: Australia is known for its extreme levels of UV radiation due to its geographical location and climate. Factors such as proximity to the equator, clear skies, and a predominantly sunny climate increase the levels of UV light reaching the Earth's surface. This high exposure to UV radiation directly impacts the incidence of skin cancer in Australia.
Evidence:
1. Geographical Location: Australia is located closer to the equator than many other countries. Due to the tilt of the Earth's axis, areas closer to the equator receive more direct sunlight, thus increasing UV radiation levels. According to the World Health Organization, the risk of developing skin cancer is higher in regions located closer to the equator.
2. Climate and Skies: Australia has a predominantly sunny climate with clear skies, allowing more UV radiation to reach the surface. The country experiences long periods of intense sunlight, especially in summer. The intensity of UV radiation increases when the sky is clear and cloud cover is minimal. This prolonged exposure to high UV radiation levels contributes to the risk of skin cancer.
3. High Incidence of Skin Cancer: Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. According to the Cancer Council Australia, around two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. This high incidence directly correlates with Australia's levels of UV radiation.
4. UV Index: The UV Index, a measure of the intensity of UV radiation, is consistently high in Australia. The daily UV Index values in Australia often reach extreme levels, indicating significant risk of skin damage and potential cancer development. The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) regularly monitors and reports UV Index levels, providing further evidence of the excessive UV exposure.
In conclusion, the high amount of UV light that Australians receive undoubtedly contributes to their high skin cancer rates. Australia's geographical location, sunny climate, clear skies, and high UV Index values all combine to increase the risk of skin cancer. Implementing effective sun protection measures, such as wearing appropriate clothing, using sunscreen, seeking shade, and regularly checking skin for any changes, becomes crucial in minimizing the impact of excessive UV exposure and reducing the incidence of skin cancer.