What is the principal organ of concern from UV radiation exposure?

• A. Skin
• B. Eye
• C. Lung
• D. Kidney

Answer: (A)

UV radiation directly targets what is exposed to the environment, and the skin is the most exposed and largest organ on the body. When UV rays hit skin, UVB can directly damage DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancers; UVA contributes to deeper skin aging and other damage through oxidative stress. Because of this direct, widespread exposure and the skin’s role as the first line of defense against sunlight, it remains the principal organ of concern for UV exposure. The eyes can be affected too (photokeratitis, cataracts), but they are not the primary organ typically emphasized for UV risk. Lungs and kidneys aren’t directly impacted by UV in the same way. Protective measures like sunscreen, clothing, and hats help shield the skin, while sunglasses help protect the eyes.