Solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiation depends upon the local UV climate, people's behaviour. Behaviour includes the time spent outdoors and the use of photoprotective agents. In adult life, a British indoor worker in the UK might typically receive 30% of his or her annual UV exposure from sun-seeking holidays, 40% from summer weekends, 20% from casual weekday exposure between April and September and just 10% from sun exposure during the 6 month period October to March.
Whilst climatic factors do influence levels of UV radiation (UVR) at the Earth's surface, it is people's behaviour out of doors that has a much greater impact on personal solar UV irradiation. Methods of personal protection include: avoiding direct sunlight in summer around noon; seeking the shade; wearing clothing absorbs UVR; wearing hats that shade face and neck; and using topical sunscreens.
Diffey BL. Human exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 2002; 1: 124-130.
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