Under the patronage of the Dean of the College of Science for Women, the Continuing Education Unit, in collaboration with the Department of Physics, organized a “training course on Ultraviolet Radiation and Its Effects on Human Skin.” The course was presented by Dr. Salma Ali Reda, Ms. Shaima Ibrahim Mahmoud, and Ms. Sula Sami Hamza, in the computer lab of the department, and was attended by a number of faculty members and staff.
The objective of the course was to clarify the nature of ultraviolet radiation, its natural and artificial sources, and its harmful effects on the skin, such as sunburn, premature skin aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. The course also highlighted the benefits of ultraviolet radiation, such as stimulating the production of Vitamin D in the body.
The lectures detailed the harmful consequences of excessive ultraviolet radiation exposure, including sunburn caused by UVB radiation, which leads to skin redness and inflammation. It also leads to premature skin aging by breaking down collagen and elastin in the skin, resulting in wrinkles and sagging. Skin cancer was classified as one of the common diseases caused by excessive ultraviolet radiation exposure, which increases the risk of developing skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
At the course’s conclusion, the lecturers outlined methods to prevent the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, including the use of sunscreen. It is essential to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of at least 30. Additionally, it is important to avoid peak hours, specifically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when ultraviolet radiation is at its strongest, and to stay in the shade as much as possible, particularly during peak hours. A key point emphasized was the importance of regularly examining the skin for changes, such as pigmentation, new moles, or changes in mole shape, and consulting a doctor as needed.
The course included a question-and-answer session, encouraging attendee interaction, as this topic is crucial for general health.
