[UV protection in climate change: health policy relevance and necessary framework conditions]

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Germany. Over 330,000 new cases are diagnosed every year and the trend is rising. The main risk factor for the development of skin cancer is UV radiation. Higher temperatures, more hot days, more extreme weather events as well as increase in UV radiation are expected throughout Germany in the future. The federal government has therefore passed the Federal Climate Adaptation Act, which obliges the federation, federal states and local authorities to deal with the consequences of climate change and to plan adaptation measures. Particular attention is paid to human health, with the reduction of heat stress and UV-related diseases such as skin cancer being prioritized. Priming the population should be prepared for heat and UV radiation by 2030. In order to develop effective strategies, cooperation between science, politics and practice is necessary. The UV-protection colloquium brought together various stakeholders to exchange current findings and define strategies. It was concluded that a joint commitment at all levels is necessary in order to integrate UV protection into climate adaptation strategies. Concrete suggestions for municipal UV protection included making the UV index visible, creating shaded areas, adapting daily routines to avoid UV exposure at peak times and comprehensive information campaigns. These measures can help to significantly reduce UV exposure among the public. For successful implementation, various stakeholders must cooperate to raise awareness of UV protection and protect the health of the population. It is crucial that UV protection is considered indispensable in the development of heat protection measures and is incorporated into all municipal climate adaptation strategies. An integrated approach should be developed to replace existing individual measures where appropriate.