Question

Excessive exposure of humans to UV-rays results in
(i) Damage to immune system
(ii) Damage to lungs
(iii) Skin cancer
(iv) Peptic ulcers

• A. (i) and (ii)
• B. (ii) and (iv)
• C. (i) and (iii)
• D. (iii) and (iv)

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

(i) and (iii)

According to World health organisation, prolonged human exposure to solar UV radiation may result in acute and chronic health effects on the skin, eye and immune system.

Sunburn (erythema) is the best-known acute effect of excessive UV radiation exposure. Over the longer term, UV radiation induces degenerative changes in cells of the skin, fibrous tissue and blood vessels leading to premature skin aging, photodermatoses and actinic keratoses.

Another long-term effect is an inflammatory reaction of the eye. In the most serious cases, skin cancer and cataracts can occur.

Furthermore, a growing body of evidence suggests that environmental levels of UV radiation may suppress cell-mediated immunity and thereby enhance the risk of infectious diseases and limit the efficacy of vaccinations. Both of these act against the health of poor and vulnerable groups, especially children of the developing world. Many developing countries are located close to the equator and hence, people are exposed to the very high levels of UV radiation that occur in these regions.

Therefore, the correct answer is option C.