Up to 60,000 people from around the globe die annually due to excessive sun exposure, a World Health Organisation report shows.
The report, published last week, states that an estimated 48,000 of the annual deaths are caused by malignant melanomas and the other 12,000 by skin carcinomas.
The WHO report - Global Burden Of Disease Of Solar Ultraviolet Radiation - is the first systematic examination of the global health burden due to ultraviolet radiation. It investigated nine adverse health outcomes emanating from excessive UVR exposure, mainly cutaneous malignant melanomas and non-melanoma skin cancers. Up to 90 per cent of the global burden of disease from melanoma and other skin cancers are estimated to be due to UVR exposure.
"Much of the UV-related illness and deaths can be avoided through a series of simple prevention measures," the WHO said.
On the other hand, the report notes that UVR has some beneficial effects, mainly in the production of vitamin D through skin exposure to the shorter wavelength of UVR (UVB). Adequate vitamin D prevents the development of certain bone diseases. However, the organisation said minimal casual exposure to UVR should be sufficient to maintain adequate vitamin D levels.
"We all need some sun, but too much sun can be dangerous, and even deadly. Fortunately, diseases from UV such as malignant melanomas, other skin cancers and cataracts are almost entirely preventable through simple protective measures," WHO public health and environment director Maria Neira said.
In Malta, 59 people succumbed to melanoma - the deadliest form of skin cancer - between 1993 and 2004. Statistics compiled by the Maltese National Cancer Registry show that almost 300 new cases of melanoma were reported over the 12-year period.
WHO sun safety measures
Limit time in the midday sun.
Seek shade when UV rays are most intense.
Wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (with sun protection factor of 15 or more).
Avoid sunlamps and tanning parlours.
Under 18-year-olds should not use them at all.
Know the UV index - sun safety practices should be taken when radiation levels are three or more.
Protect children from the sun.