Time now for our "Life & Info" segment... where we focus on information useful for your everyday life.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, …and it's also one of the months with the highest UV index.
The weather service advises people going out for a stroll to make sure they use sunscreen and put on hats and sunglasses.
Park Se-young has more. Spring sunshine and blue skies are here, and so are harmful UV rays.
According to statistics from the last three years, …the UV index is highest in May …due to increased solar radiation and the high number of clear days.
In fact, harmful UVA rays are stronger in May than in the peak summer months of July and August.
Exposure to long-wavelength UVA contributes to premature skin aging …and has been associated with cataract formation and retinal degeneration.
Strong UV rays can also break down exhaust from cars and create the secondary pollutant ozone.
“Ozone can aggravate respiratory diseases, and studies have also pointed to effects on the cardiovascular system as well as links to strokes.”

Between the hours of noon and 4 p.m., sunscreen should be reapplied every two to three hours.
Since sun sprays can get into the respiratory tract, …they should not be used with children and infants.
Sunglasses and hats can also provide protection against UV rays.
And because ozone is not filtered by masks, it’s best to avoid outdoor activities when the concentration is high.
Park Se-young, Arirang News.