Headlines - The Sun: Summer's False Friend!

Prolonged, unprotected exposure to the sun is not harmless. Exposure to UV rays can cause sunburn or allergic reactions and, in the long term, may contribute to the development of cancer. This risk is even higher during the sunniest hours of the day. Each year, between 110 and 272 people in Burgundy and 69 to 180 in Franche-Comté develop skin melanoma. The International Agency for Research on Cancer estimates that nearly 70% of melanomas result from overexposure to the sun. Children under 15 are particularly vulnerable to UV rays. Their eyes and skin are more sensitive because the body’s natural defenses are not fully developed until puberty. They must be protected as a priority and with unwavering care. Sunburns sustained during childhood significantly increase the risk of skin cancer in adulthood and cause damage to the eyes that can lead to serious vision problems.