Hyderabad Doctors Call for UV Index Inclusion in Weather Forecasts to Curb Skin Damage
At the same time, some doctors say communication must remain measured. Overloading people with technical data could lead to confusion or unnecessary fear, especially when sunlight in controlled amounts is also beneficial.
Hyderabad:A growing number of doctors in Hyderabad say the absence of UV index — that shows the intensity of harmful ultraviolet rays — in daily weather bulletins leaves people unaware of how harsh sunlight can be, even before peak heat sets in.
UV light is a component of sunlight and is necessary for, among other things, the production of Vitamin D. However, excess exposure to UV light is known to cause a variety of problems ranging from sunburn and premature ageing of the skin to skin cancer.
"People assume the risk in summer comes when the temperature rises, but ultraviolet UV peaks earlier and can damage skin within minutes. Without UV index, they don't know when to protect themselves," said city-based dermatologist Dr Karunya Kumar, calling for its inclusion in routine forecasts.
The India Meteorological Department (Hyderabad) does not currently predict UV ratings, which some private forecasters do. Asked about it, an IMD-Hyderabad official said that the format of the bulletins being issued currently followed national guidelines.
"This matter has been brought up and is being discussed internally. It needs some time before it can be mentioned," said Dr K. Nagaratna, head scientist at IMD Hyderabad.
Recent summer patterns across Hyderabad and Telangana show UV index levels frequently reaching 10 to 12 in April and May, placing the region in the 'very high' to 'extreme' category. At such levels, unprotected sensitive skin can begin to see damage within 15 minutes, particularly during late morning hours, general physician, Dr Anusha Reddy told Deccan Chronicle.
Doctors say this creates a gap between perception and risk. "Many step out when it feels less hot, not realising that radiation exposure is already at its peak," said Dr Kumar while Dr Reddy added that repeated exposure, rather than a single instance, leads to longer-term damage such as pigmentation, skin ageing and, in severe cases, cellular-level impact.
At the same time, some doctors say communication must remain measured. Overloading people with technical data could lead to confusion or unnecessary fear, especially when sunlight in controlled amounts is also beneficial.
“In my practice, most cases are acute heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, cramps, exhaustion and heat stroke. UV damage is more gradual, starting with tanning or irritation and building up with repeated exposure,” explained Dr V. Jagadeesh, consulting general physician.
He that we must avoid creating panic. "Not all sun exposure is harmful. The body does benefit from controlled exposure. The issue is when people are unaware of how long they are exposed or how strong the radiation is at that point. Giving too much technical information without context can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Awareness should be practical and help people take simple precautions, not make them fearful."
