Assessing the Biological Impacts and Health Risks of UV Radiation in the Context of Sustainable Development Goals: Review

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, while essential for certain biological processes, presents significant risks to human health and ecosystems. Increased UV exposure, driven by ozone depletion and climate change, heightens threats such as DNA damage, skin cancer, immune suppression, and eye disorders, directly aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being. Additionally, UV radiation disrupts marine and terrestrial ecosystems, impacting biodiversity and productivity, relevant to SDGs 14 and 15. This review evaluates the health and environmental impacts of UV radiation and highlights recent advancements in UV monitoring technology. Key findings reveal substantial evidence linking UV exposure to accelerated skin aging, immune system impairment, and ecological imbalances, with specific emphasis on the long-term health effects, genetic variability in UV sensitivity, and interactions with the skin microbiome. This review proposes strategies to mitigate UV radiation impacts, emphasizing the integration of SDG-oriented approaches to foster resilience in public health and ecosystems.