The reality of climate change has become increasingly obvious to people worldwide as countless communities are reeling from the devastation caused by extreme weather events that are associated with climate change. This has highlighted the need for urgent climate action, as well as investment in adaptation and resilience. However, most people focus on changes with high visibility such as rising sea levels, flash floods, and wildfires, while the threat of sun exposure is often overlooked. This is something that we need to be alert to, especially as parents, because babies are particularly vulnerable to health complications caused by sun exposure.

How Climate Change Affects UV Radiation

Although scientists are cautious with their predictions and we cannot be certain about changes in UV radiation in the future, there is strong evidence indicating that climate change is already having a direct impact on skin cancer incidence, which has been increasing dramatically across the world. As high exposure to UV radiation is the most significant risk factor for skin cancer, it would be fair to surmise that there has been a rise in exposure to UV radiation in recent decades.

The fact that UV radiation in sunlight affects the earth’s climate system is well-known, but we are now learning that climate change affects sunlight and consequently UV radiation. These changes are believed to occur because the ozone layer (which filters UV radiation) is influenced by the composition of our atmosphere. The same pollutants that cause climate change also alter the atmospheric composition, potentially decreasing stratospheric ozone. Climate change-induced weather events such as wildfires can cause further damage as they produce aerosols that deplete ozone. This allows for higher levels of harmful UV rays to reach the earth’s surface, threatening humans and all other animal and plant life.

Recent research suggests that there will be a 3–8 percent increase in the UV Index across large areas of the world in the coming decades. Of course, the extent of change will ultimately depend on variables such as greenhouse gas emissions, cloud cover, and aerosol concentrations.

Why UV Radiation Poses A Greater Risk To Babies

It’s well-recognized that babies are a lot more vulnerable to extreme heat as their bodies are still developing and they don’t have the same capacity for body temperature regulation as adults. In the context of sun exposure and UV radiation, babies are at greater risk of sunburn and lasting sun damage because they have highly sensitive and delicate skin.

Although the mechanisms are not clearly understood, evidence from epidemiological research shows that high levels of sun exposure in early childhood increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. This is most likely linked to genetic damage that results from early sun exposure, stimulating the first mutational step. Moreover, damage cause by sun exposure is cumulative, making it important to protect babies as early as possible. This means limiting direct sun exposure to just a few minutes a day. This level of exposure is regarded as both safe and healthy. However, when spending anything more than a few minutes outside, it’s vital that you use sun protection for your baby.

What Can Parents Do To Protect Babies From Sun Exposure

Increased UV radiation was not something our parents had to worry about, but it is our reality today. As parents, it’s up to us to protect our children from the consequences of climate change and that includes protecting babies from sun exposure from the time of birth. Some steps that you can take include:

Apply an expert-recommended baby-safe sunscreen with a broad-spectrum formula and an SPF of at least 30. Baby-safe sunscreens are free of chemical blockers that are commonly used in regular sunscreens.
Try to dress your baby in UV protective clothing if you’re going to be spending time outdoors. While clothing should be cool and loose-fitting, it’s best to of for fabrics with a higher ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating.
Make it a point to limit time spent in direct sunlight. While sticking to shaded areas, continue to use protection as UV radiation is also scattered and reflected from surfaces, so not all of it comes from direct exposure to sunlight.
Limit outdoor activities with your baby to early mornings or evenings so as to avoid peak times for sun exposure.
Don’t forget that sun exposure doesn’t just pose a threat because of UV radiation but also because of heat. Make sure to keep your baby well-hydrated and cool whenever you’re outside.