Does the amount of UV light that Australians get contribute to their high skin cancer rates? Explain in paragraphs with claim, reasoning and evidence.
Claim: The amount of UV light Australians get contributes to their high skin cancer rates.
Reasoning: Australia is known for its high levels of UV radiation due to its location and climate. Exposure to excessive UV radiation is a major risk factor for skin cancer development. Therefore, the high skin cancer rates in Australia may be influenced by the amount of UV light Australians receive.
Evidence:
1. Geographical Location: Australia is situated close to the equator, meaning that it receives more intense and direct UV radiation compared to countries located further from the equator. The angle at which the sun's rays reach the earth's surface in Australia increases the UV index, leading to higher exposure levels.
2. Climate: Australia has a predominantly hot and sunny climate, which promotes outdoor activities and prolonged exposure to the sun. This increases the chances of prolonged exposure to UV radiation, making Australians more susceptible to the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure.
3. Outdoor Lifestyle: Australians have a cultural inclination towards outdoor activities such as surfing, swimming, and participating in sports. These activities often take place during peak UV radiation hours, which further elevates the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
4. Weakened Ozone Layer: The ozone layer acts as a shield, protecting the earth's surface from harmful UV radiation. However, due to human activities such as the use of ozone-depleting substances, the ozone layer above Australia is thinner compared to other regions. This leads to higher levels of UV radiation reaching the ground, increasing the risk of skin cancer.
In summary, the high skin cancer rates in Australia can be attributed to the amount of UV light Australians receive. The country's geographical location, climate, outdoor lifestyle, and a weakened ozone layer all contribute to elevated levels of UV radiation exposure, making Australians more susceptible to skin cancer development.