Introduction: Ultraviolet radiation is present in sunlight and is divided into ultraviolet A, B and C rays, and cannot be detected by human senses. UltravioletA rays are the major cause of photodermatoses, skin aging, and lead to skin cancer due to deoxyribonucleic acid damage. Ultraviolet B rays are necessary for vitamin D production and cause skin cancer, most common type of cancer in humans, with direct deokxyribonucleic acid damage and immunosuppressive action. We differentiate between melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. Malignant melanoma accounts for approximately 5% of all skin cancers, and is responsible for over 90% of all skin cancer related deaths. Therefore, prevention and consideration of general guidelines on protection against harmful effects of UV radiation is very importantAim: We want to introduce the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation on the skin and determine the role of a nurse in prevention. Methods: We used a descriptive method in the diploma thesis. When searching for literature, we focused on the period from 2010 to 2019. We searched for literature in English and Slovenian in the CINAHL, MedLine and Web of Science databases, using the PubMed and EBSCOhost search engines. The key words were ultraviolet, radiation, skin, prevention, melanoma, and protection. Results: Based on the literature overview, we determined that skin cancer is the most common malignant disease in the world and affects men and women of all skin tones, and is a major public health concern due to its rapidly increasing incidence. Nurse, working in primary, secondary and tertiary level, also has in important role in prevention. The focus in primary level is to raise awareness, in secondary early detection, and in tertiary the follow up of patient’s condition. Various national campaigns and preventive programs are also helpful, as well as referral clinics that focus on preventive screening. Discussion and conclusion: The safest and most effective protection is to avoid the sun. Although sunlight is hard to avoid and has beneficial effects on our mood, and is necessary for vitamin D synthesis, we must keep in mind the negative effects confirmed by countless studies.
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