Skin cancer awareness remains crucial in Belgium, especially as summer approaches. On 2025-08-16 15:05:00, vzw Melanoompunt launched a striking campaign across more than 200 locations in cities and stations, highlighting that cloudy weather does not fully shield skin from harmful UV rays. Many Belgians mistakenly believe clouds block all UV radiation, but this is far from the truth.
- Vzw Melanoompunt waarschuwt voor UV-straling
- Wolken bieden geen volledige zonbescherming
- Smeer je in bij bewolkt weer
- UV-index voorspellingen houden geen rekening met wolken
- Dermatoloog raadt insmeren aan vanaf UV-index 3
- Huidkanker is meest voorkomende kanker in België
Marianne Bosman of Melanoompunt stresses that even on overcast days in summer, about 30% of UV rays penetrate clouds. This misconception can lead to inadequate sun protection and increased melanoma risks. So, how protected are you really when the sky is grey? And should you apply sunscreen even if the sun isn’t visible?
These questions lead US to important advice on sun safety, especially for Belgian residents who often rely on weather apps that don’t fully account for cloud cover’s effect on UV exposure.
Why does cloud cover not guarantee protection from UV rays? Dermatologist Thomas Maselis explains that only thick, dense clouds block most UV radiation, while thin or partial cloud cover allows significant UV exposure. This means:
- UV index forecasts often assume clear skies, underestimating risk on cloudy days.
- Sun protection is necessary from a UV index of 3 and above, regardless of cloudiness.
- Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Belgium, with one in three cases linked to UV exposure.
As summer continues, Belgians should rethink their sun safety habits. Will you apply sunscreen on cloudy days? Taking simple precautions now can reduce melanoma risks and protect your skin long-term.
