Time now for our "Life & Info" segment... where we focus on information useful for your everyday life.<br />May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, …and it's also one of the months with the highest UV index.<br />The weather service advises people going out for a stroll to make sure they use sunscreen and put on hats and sunglasses.<br />Park Se-young has more. Spring sunshine and blue skies are here, and so are harmful UV rays.<br />According to statistics from the last three years, …the UV index is highest in May …due to increased solar radiation and the high number of clear days. <br />In fact, harmful UVA rays are stronger in May than in the peak summer months of July and August.<br />Exposure to long-wavelength UVA contributes to premature skin aging …and has been associated with cataract formation and retinal degeneration.<br />Strong UV rays can also break down exhaust from cars and create the secondary pollutant ozone.<br />“Ozone can aggravate respiratory diseases, and studies have also pointed to effects on the cardiovascular system as well as links to strokes.”<br /><br />Between the hours of noon and 4 p.m., sunscreen should be reapplied every two to three hours.<br />Since sun sprays can get into the respiratory tract, …they should not be used with children and infants.<br />Sunglasses and hats can also provide protection against UV rays.<br />And because ozone is not filtered by masks, it’s best to avoid outdoor activities when the concentration is high.<br />Park Se-young, Arirang News. <br />
