Ministry Issues Warning Against 'Very High' UV Index In Canary Island, Know Why It Matters

Updated Feb 25, 2025 | 10:41 AM IST

Summary The Ministry of Health for this holiday destination has urged both, residents and visitors to take extra precautions and preventative measures to limit the impact of sun exposure over their body and skin.
High UV Index in Carnay Islands

Credits: Canva

When the sun is out after a long winter, every one loves it. But not the people of Canary Islands. Tourists there are being warned about the "unusually high risk" of UV rays this week. The Ministry of Health for this holiday destination has urged both, residents and visitors to take extra precautions and preventative measures to limit the impact of sun exposure over their body and skin.

The Ministry observed Aemet, Spain's national weather agency for the forecast which showed higher than normal UV or ultraviolet radiation levels in the region. It is in this backdrop that everyone in the region are requested to be extra careful when they are out in the sun. UV levels are set to reach 7, which is a 'high risk' in La Palma, El Hierro, La Gomera and Gran Canaria. Other regions like Tenerife, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are expected to reach a level 6, which is also classed as 'high risk'.

UV Index Explained

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), a UV index is a measure of the level of UV radiation, which ranges from zero upward. The higher the UVI, the greater potential for damage to skin and eye and the less time it takes for harm to occur, notes WHO.

The range 1 to 2 represents a low risk, 2 to 5 is moderate, 6 to 7 is at high risk, 8 to 10 is at very high and anything over 11 is extremely risky for anyone to stay out.

UV radiation levels fluctuate throughout the day, with the highest values occurring during the four-hour period around solar noon. The reported UV Index (UVI) typically reflects this daily peak. Depending on geographic location and the use of daylight saving time, solar noon falls between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. In some countries, sun protection advisories are issued when UV levels are expected to reach 3 or higher, as exposure at these levels increases the risk of skin damage, making protective measures essential.

What happens to you when you are out in sun for too long?

While sun bathing is good, being out in the sun when the UVI indicates a high or very high risk, may cause you health concerns. It can lead to sunburn, premature skin aging, incresed risk of skin cancer, eye damage and in severe cases, heat related disease.

Sunburn

It is one of the most common skin injury which happens when there is excess exposure to UV radiation from the sun. This happens when the UV radiation directly damages the DNA skin cells. These damaged cells die and shed, this is why people experience peeling after getting a sunburn.

Dehydration

This is also a common occurrence when your body loses too many fluids or electrolytes. It can also interfere with your normal body functions. You may feel dehydrated, especially when you are out in the sun, but not well hydrated. The most common symptoms are dizziness, fatigue and headache on hot days.

Hyponatremia

This is an electrolyte disorder in which your body experiences low sodium in blood. The symptoms could lead to nausea, confusion and even weakness. There are extreme cases when one may have seizures, slip into coma or die.

Heat Exhaustion

This is one of the most common consequence of being out under the hot sun. Dehydration with prolonged heat exposure can lead to heat exhaustion.

Heatstroke

When you are out under the sun and your body's core temperature cross 104°, heatstroke may occur. This is also known as sunstroke. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it causes more than 600 deaths each year in the United States.

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Donald Trump Says Health Check-Up Went 'Perfectly'

Updated May 27, 2026 | 12:43 PM IST

SummaryThe White House hasn't so far released details from Trump’s health check up to support his claim, or clarify what tests the president had undergone as part of the clinical exam.
Donald Trump Says Health Check-Up Went 'Perfectly'

Credit: AP

US President Donald Trump has declared himself to be in good health after undertaking the third annual medical check-up in his second term as the oldest American President.

Trump, who turns 80 next month, saw his doctors at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for a routine health check up on May 26.

“Everything checked out PERFECTLY,” Trump wrote on social media. He has, however, offered no details about what doctors observed.

The White House hasn't so far released details from Trump’s health check up to support his claim, or clarify what tests the president had undergone as part of the clinical exam.

As per an earlier statement from the White House, the visit involved “routine annual dental and medical assessments as part of his regular preventive health care,” but did not offer additional details on the medical exam.

His previous annual check-up was in April 2025. In October, he underwent another check-up.

“You have five doctors sitting there and … the questions are very easy at the beginning, then pretty easy, then pretty hard by the time you get to the end, there are not a lot of people in the room who can get them, believe me,” Trump informed the crowd at a rally in New York state last week about the impending test, The Times reported.

“So the first question was, you have a bear, a snake, an elephant, and a horse. Name the horse. That’s the horse. The second question is a little tougher,” he said.

“Toward the end, they had a question like, pick a number, sir, any number. OK. 203. Multiply times nine, divided by two, add 1324, subtract 1292. Sir, multiply it out one more time by 19. What is the answer, sir? I got it right … and the one doctor said, I’ve been doing this test for 20 years, I’ve never seen anybody ace it. … So I’ve taken it, and I’ve aced it all three times, I’ll tell you, because it is a positive thing.”

Trump In ‘Excellent Health’

Also read: ‘Sea Or See?’ Donald Trump's Remark Sparks Fresh Cognitive Health Speculation

The president’s health has been the subject of intense scrutiny — ranging from his mental state to visible bruising around his hands.

Trump — who has frequently criticized former President Joe Biden over age-related health and fitness issues — has recently remarked on how good he feels despite his age.

Trump said he feels the same as he did 50 years ago. “I feel literally the same,” he said at an Oval Office event. “I don’t know why. It’s not because I eat the best foods,” AP reported.

Read More: Russia's New Ebola Vaccine To Protect Against Rare Bundibugyo Strain, Says Health Minister

He also joked about his exercise regimen, saying that he works out “like about one minute a day, max.”

According to a White House summary of his previous annual medical examination in April last year, Trump was found to be in “excellent cognitive and physical health”.

“A comprehensive neurological examination revealed no abnormalities in his mental status, cranial nerves, motor and sensory functions, reflexes, gait, and balance. Cognitive function, assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), was normal with a score of 30 out of 30,” his White House physician, Captain Sean Barbabella, wrote.

There were tests for depression and anxiety, and Trump recorded a score “within the normal range for both,” although numbers were not given.

Scans in October also demonstrated that Trump is in “excellent overall health”.

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Heatwave In India: Temperatures Continuously Rising; Stay Hydrated, Says PM Modi

Updated May 27, 2026 | 11:57 AM IST

SummaryPrime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to take precautions and stay hydrated. He also requested the citizens to help each other in these tough times.
Heatwave In India: Temperatures Continuously Rising; Stay Hydrated, Says PM Modi

Credit: PIB

Amid the rising heatwave conditions in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today expressed his concerns and advised the citizens to stay hydrated.

In a post shared on the social media platform X, PM Modi asked people to take precautions as well as help fellow citizens by offering drinking water.

"Temperatures are continuously rising in different parts of the country, and along with this, the many difficulties caused by the heat in daily life are also increasing. I urge all my fellow citizens to take as many precautions as possible. Please keep yourselves hydrated and carry water with you when stepping out of your homes,” the Prime Minister said.

“In such weather, your sensitivity also becomes a great source of support. If possible, do offer a glass of water to anyone who is thirsty. I also appreciate those people who keep water in pitchers outside their homes and shops so that anyone can drink from them,” he added.

Temperatures Are Rising Throughout The Nation

The post comes as the temperature is increasing throughout the country.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum temperature is expected to reach around 45°C on Wednesday, while the minimum may stay close to 28°C.

This extreme heat has become a serious public health challenge, as it affects everything from hydration levels in the body to digestion, the health of your skin, heart, and even mental well-being.

The department has issued a clear warning for a “heatwave.” Strong surface winds are also expected during the afternoon and evening. Humidity levels on May 27 are forecast to vary between 40 per cent at the highest and 25 per cent at the lowest.

Authorities have cautioned that the heatwave may be accompanied by strong, hot winds later in the day. People are advised to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated, and take necessary measures to avoid direct exposure to sunlight.

Speaking to HealthandMe, Dr. L.K Jha, Associate Director & Head Unit-II– Cardiology, Asian Hospital, Faridabad, said how extreme heat levels can increase heart conditions such as palpitations.

“Dehydration contributes to palpitations associated with heatwaves significantly due to excessive sweating, fluid loss, and critical electrolyte loss, which all play key roles in maintaining normal heart rhythm and health of the cardiovascular system. Dehydration causes decreases in blood pressure, forcing the heart to increase its rate during periods of heat exposure if an individual is dehydrated”.

Read Also: Heatwave Hacks: A Complete Survival Plan for Extreme Indian Summer

How To Stay Fit During a Heat Wave?

  • Drink water consistently at regular intervals instead of gulping large quantities at once. Electrolyte-rich fluids like coconut water, lemon water with a pinch of salt, or buttermilk are healthy, affordable options to soothe parched throats.

  • Add items like curd, rice, cucumber, and bottle gourd to your diet and avoid red meat and fried foods during peak summer days.

  • Extreme temperatures put additional stress on the cardiovascular system, especially in people with hypertension, diabetes, or heart conditions. Make sure to take all prescribed medications exactly as advised—don’t skip doses even if you experience heat-induced nausea. If you feel dizzy or experience palpitations or severe fatigue, consult your doctor as soon as possible.

  • Air conditioning is helpful, but overexposure can lead to dry skin, headaches, and respiratory discomfort. Once every two or three hours, step away from your desk for a few minutes. Walk or stand, and sip some water.

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Skin Cancer: Smart Tattoo Technology Could Revolutionize Early Detection Of The Deadly Disease

Updated May 27, 2026 | 11:00 AM IST

SummaryThe treatment of skin cancer is going to be completely changed with the advent of smart tattoo technology, which was developed by a collaboration of researchers from the INRS in Québec and Université de Montréal.
Skin Cancer: Smart Tattoo Technology Could Revolutionize Early Detection Of The Deadly Disease

Credit: iStock

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer causes about 60,000 deaths every year globally. The current estimates also show that about one in five Americans is at risk of having the deadly disease in their lifetime. Though the technology of curing skin cancer is very advanced, the early detection of the disease is still a very crucial aspect in the path to getting a full cure.

And now, the researchers have come up with the smart tattoo technology, which can be a game-changer in this aspect.

A recent research study led by Professor Jinyang Liang from the Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), an expert in ultrafast imaging and biophotonics, has shed light on promising smart tattoo technology that can aid in detecting skin cancer. The study was conducted in collaboration between the INRS in Québec and Université de Montréal.

The process that Professor Liang and his team have researched is Single-shot Microneedle-Encoded Upconversion Lifetime Mapping (SMEAR-ULM), which is a great leap forward in skin cancer detection.SMEAR-ULM monitors microscopic temperature changes on the skin surface that signal the pernicious transformations with unprecedented sensitivity.

Skin cancer is, without a doubt, one of the most deadly ailments known to man, and among its three types, melanoma is the most notorious one. Early detection in case of melanoma is very important for its cure. The current state of the treatment process depends heavily on visual examinations and invasive biopsies, which are known to cause discomfort for patients as well as occasional unnecessary interventions due to false positives, and SMEAR-ULM is a possible answer to these problems.

Read Also: Melanoma Is Being Overdiagnosed. Here's Everything You Should Know

Melanoma: The Deadliest Kind Of Skin Cancer

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. It can occur anywhere on the skin but often develops on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, arms, back, and legs. Melanoma can also appear in less-exposed areas, like the soles of the feet, palms, or under the nails, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones. Although rare, melanoma may develop in the eyes, mouth, or internal organs.

Symptoms Of Melanoma

The primary sign of melanoma is a new or changing mole, freckle, or skin lesion. The "ABCDE rule" helps identify suspicious moles:

  • Asymmetry: One half does not match the other.

  • Border: Irregular or scalloped edges.

  • Colour: Multiple shades or unusual colours like red, white, or blue.

  • Diameter: Larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

  • Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or colour.

Additional symptoms may include itching, bleeding, or a sore that doesn’t heal. Prompt medical attention is essential for suspicious skin changes.

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