Skin cancer risk: UV hotspots around the world

The ultraviolet index (UVI) is a measure of the level of UV radiation. UVI 3 is the level above which sun protection is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). But some of the most popular vacation destinations on the planet regularly experience a UVI of anywhere between 8 and 11. This means anybody failing to cover up in such conditions runs the risk of damaging their health, not least by promoting the onset of skin cancer. But how do you interpret UVI, and where in the world are some of the worst travel hotspots?

Click through and discover the countries with the greatest UV levels.

What is the UVI?

The ultraviolet index, or UVI, is an international standard measurement of the strength of the sunburn-producing ultraviolet (UV) radiation at a particular place and time.

Bolivia

Throughout the Altiplano region of Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, UVI values regularly exceed 20, according to ResearchGate.

Chile

The bulk of the Altiplano lies in Bolivia, but its northern parts lie in Peru, and its southwestern fringes lie in Chile. The Altiplano's elevated topography is a contributory factor in the extreme UVI found in this part of the world. But this region is not the only travel hotspot that could be damaging to your health.

Thailand

Thailand is another dangerous holiday destination in terms of UV radiation. Mid-summer UVI levels here can also reach 11+.

Singapore

In fact, Southeast Asia in general is a region where care needs to be taken when venturing out in the sun. UVI in Singapore, for example, often peaks in the extreme at 11.

Australia

In summer, most of Australia has an average clear-sky maximum UVI forecast in the extreme range (11+).

Brazil

Across the other side of the world but still in the Southern Hemisphere, Brazil's UVI averages 10, which is still very high.

Panama

Likewise, Panama has been known to peak at 11, its hot and humid tropical climate conducive to high UV.

Barbados

Barbados, a favorite winter sun vacation destination, experiences year-round heat and humidity. Expect an average UVI of 11.

Kenya

Over in Africa, UVI levels are generally high, depending on the season. In Kenya, however, a country that straddles the equator, levels are extreme, reaching 11 or more.

USA

Ultraviolet index levels in the Unites States largely depend on the state. Hawaii, for example, averages a summer UVI of 11 to 12, which is extreme. In fact, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that at high-altitude locations, such as the Mauna Loa Observatory, the UVI can exceed 20!

And you'd expect states in the Southwestern region of the US to boil under mid-summer heat; places like Arizona, where the average UVI is a very high 10.

Japan

Back in the Far East but staying in the Northern Hemisphere, Japan is known for its seasonal climate. Eastern and Western Japan especially experience very hot and humid summers, where the UVI can easily climb to 10, notes Germany's Federal Office for Radiation Protection, or Bundesamt für Strahlenschutz (BFS).

India

Across India, UVI levels tend to be dangerously high, according to the season. To give you an idea, UVI in Chennai can peak at 15, while in Mumbai a level of 16 is not uncommon. Both Kolkata and Delhi record similar levels.