Ultraviolet radiation and health effects in the Antarctic

With the recognition that global climate change may adversely affect human health, there has been an increase in relevant research worldwide. In the A ntarctic medical research has been largely directed at the potential health effects of stratospheric ozone depletion. For over a decade continuous bro ad-band measurements of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) have been made at all A ustralian stations. Results of UV measurements are presented and comparison s made with the "ozone hole" moving over the stations, erythemal UVR increa sing by a factor of more than 2.5 over a three day period. During late spri ng and despite the large difference in latitude, Davis, Antarctica, and Mel bourne, Australia, are very similar in erythemal UVR. Antarctic immunologic al and photobiological research is presented and the role of UVR discussed. Epidemiological data is reviewed for short-term links between UVR and rela ted disease. With increased awareness of the dangers of UVR and consequent changes in sun-related behaviour, the incidence of the acute effects of UVR is much lower than decades ago. As the itinerant Antarctic population spen ds a maximum of 12-18 months at a time in that location it is an excellent control group for studies on the health effects of UVR on permanent populat ions at similar latitudes in the Arctic.