UV radiation and skin cancer in Santa Maria (RS): science communication for health promotion

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5902/2447115198212

Keywords:

Ultraviolet radiation, DNA damage, Skin cancer

Abstract

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is associated with DNA damage and the development of skin cancer. This research report presents an outreach initiative that produced a scientific dissemination video designed for social media, combining accessible language with technical accuracy. The content was based on UVA and UVB radiation monitoring in Santa Maria (RS, Brazil), ozone layer data collection, and analysis of DNA lesions induced by solar radiation. Preliminary data on skin cancer cases obtained from the University Hospital of Santa Maria (HUSM) were also included. The video aims to raise public awareness about the importance of daily photoprotection. The action reinforces the university’s role in health promotion and highlights the potential of social media as an effective tool for scientific dissemination and prevention. The project integrates science and community, strengthening the social commitment of university extension programs.

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Author Biographies

Bruna Cogo Borin, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria

PhD candidate in the Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry (CAPES scholarship) at the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM). She holds a Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences and a Master's degree in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, also from UFSM. She conducts research in the field of Molecular Biology at the Ultraviolet Radiation and Photobiology Laboratory, monitoring the genotoxic potential of UV light and radiation levels in the city of Santa Maria, RS, as well as ozone concentration data from NASA satellites. She is currently developing the first database on skin cancer incidence in the central region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

Raíssa Londero Chemello, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria

Professora da Disciplina de Dermatologia da UFSM e médica dermatologista do Hospital Universitário de Santa Maria - HUSM/RS.

Contribuição: Co-autoria e mediação institucional (acesso ao HUSM).

Nara Maria Beck Martins, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria

Professora do Departamento de Patologia da UFSM e médica patologista do Hospital Universitário de Santa Maria - HUSM/RS.

Contribuição: Co-autoria, mediação institucional e colaboração na coleta de dados (Patologia).

André Passaglia Schuch, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria

Pós-Doutor, Professor Adjunto em Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular.

Contribuição: Co-autoria, orientação e redação.

References

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Additional Files

Published

2026-09-04

Issue

Vol. 12 (2026): Fluxo contínuo

Section

Experiências em Cena – vídeos de Divulgação Científica

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