From CLIVE DEVERALL
The article ‘Sun lovers turn to nature for protection’ (Technology,
17 February) stated that ultraviolet-A (UV-A) is harmless. There are in
fact multiple references to the harmful effects of UV-A in the medical literature.
In addition, it directly relates to rapid ageing of the skin. The article
also identified UV-A as ‘the tanning wavelength’. Surely UV-B is the principal
tan initiator? Another reference is to UV-C, implying that UV-C is reaching
those who sunbathe. Can you tell us where? Perhaps he or she who wrote this
report had been out in the sun just a little too long.
Clive Deverall Director Cancer Foundation of Western Australia Perth,
Australia
