The “WATCH OUT” project, funded by the German Cancer Aid and implemented by the Association for Dermatological Prevention (ADP), intensifies education about skin cancer risks caused by UV radiation. With over 500 UV index panels in more than 70 cities and municipalities in nine federal states, the project provides up-to-date information on the intensity of solar radiation and provides protective measures. It is supported by the German Lifesaving Society (DLRG), stakeholders from the health, sports and leisure sectors as well as the TV presenter Susanne Klehn, who as an ambassador promotes consistent sun protection from her own experience.

The boards that show the UV index determined by the German Weather Service are placed in places such as beaches, bathing lakes, festivals and sports facilities, where people often underestimate UV radiation. Protection is necessary from a UV index of 3, as skin damage occurs even before sunburn. The aim is to establish the UV index in everyday life in order to prevent skin cancer. More than 370,000 people are newly diagnosed with skin cancer every year, with UV radiation being the main risk factor. Climate change increases the intensity of radiation, which makes prevention even more urgent.

The project calls for a social rethink, for example through more shady places in daycare centres, schools and public spaces as well as adapted training times for sports activities outside the midday sun. Such measures are intended to anchor UV protection in everyday life. The German Cancer Aid also supports projects such as “Clever in Sun and Shade”, which provides information in daycare centres, schools and sports clubs for specific target groups. “WATCH OUT” enables municipalities and private actors to raise awareness of UV protection in a low-threshold way.

The UV Index Chart

The UV index (UVI) is an international measure of the maximum amount of UV radiation that occurs in a day. The UV index values are associated with recommendations for sun protection. From a UVI of 3, it is advisable to seek shade at lunchtime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The best way to protect your skin and eyes is to wear clothing that also covers important areas such as shoulders or the back of your feet, headgear that also protects your forehead, neck and ears, and UV400 sunglasses that do not allow UV radiation to reach the eyes on the sides. Sunscreen completes the protection. It is intended for areas of skin that are not covered by clothing. If the UV index is red or violet, i.e. from a UV index of 8 or higher, it is better to stay indoors at lunchtime to protect your skin and eyes.

Detailed information on the UV index is provided by the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS): www.bfs.de/uv-prognose and the German Weather Service (DWD): www.uv-index.de.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

Gender Notice. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple naming and gendered designations are used for better readability. ected.