Brasília, February 26, 2004 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The Brazilian Dermatological Society (SBD) alerts: Greater care of the skin in the first 18 years of life reduces by 85% the chances of developing skin cancer, the form of the disease that is most frequent, as well as being responsible for 25% of all malignant tumors registered in Brazil. Excessive exposure to the rays of the sun without adequate protection also increases the risks of eye damage and a weakened immune system.

The reduction of the ozone layer as a result of the emission of man-made substances, such as CFC gases, used for a long time in refrigerators, air conditioners, and sprays, among other products, increased the quantity and range of ultra-violet rays (UV-B). Formed by a concentration of ozone gas in the upper atmosphere, between 10 and 50 kilometers above the earth's surface, the ozone layer functions as a solar filter, protecting living creatures from damage caused by the sun's ultra-violet radiation.

The use of sunscreen and clothing to protect sensitive parts of the body is recommended, even on cloudy days. According to the SBD, the dangerous solar rays penetrate the clouds and are reflected by the sand, pavement, or water, reaching the skin even in the shade. (DAS)