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How does ozone depletion affect the health of people and animals living in affected areas?

Freda Labuschagne

Ozone depletion is a serious issue that has been affecting various areas across the world. The depletion of ozone layer means that more and more ultraviolet (UV) rays penetrate the atmosphere and reach the Earth's surface. These rays can have a significant impact on the health of people and animals living in affected areas.

UV rays can cause a range of health problems, including skin cancer, cataracts, and immune system suppression. The increment in skin cancer cases has been significantly linked to increased exposure to UVB radiation. When the ozone layer is depleted, more of these harmful rays can reach the Earth's surface, leading to these health complications. Apart from skin cancer, UV radiation can also cause damage to the eyes. This can result in cataracts, a condition where the eye lens becomes cloudy, leading to vision impairment.

Additionally, excess UV radiation can lead to immune system suppression, making people susceptible to various diseases. This occurs because the radiation interferes with the functioning of the immune system cells. When the immune system is compromised, it becomes challenging to fight infections and diseases.

Animals living in areas affected by ozone depletion can also have significant health implications. For instance, aquatic creatures like amphibians can experience DNA and reproductive problems due to increased UV radiation exposure. This problem occurs when UV radiation disrupts the creatures' DNA, leading to abnormal development of the embryo.

Further, animals living in areas with depleted ozone layers can experience skin damage and eye problems, just as humans. For instance, when UV radiation penetrates the skin of animals, it can lead to melanomas, a type of skin cancer. This condition is prevalent in animals living in high-altitude areas or apart from those existing in Antarctica or New Zealand. In Antarctica, the depletion of ozone layer has been linked to anomalies in marine food webs, leading to negative consequences for the ecosystem.

In conclusion, the depletion of the ozone layer is a serious environmental challenge that has significant health implications for people and animals living in affected areas. The increment of UV radiation exposure is linked to cancerous diseases like skin cancer and cataracts. Further, animals living in areas with depleted ozone layers can also experience various health complications. It is essential to take the necessary measures to conserve the ozone layer and ensure the well-being of all living creatures.