Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question asks for the primary human health impact of increased exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation resulting from the thinning of the ozone layer.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
• The ozone layer in the stratosphere acts as a shield, absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful Ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation. Depletion of this layer (caused by ODS like CFCs) allows more UV radiation to reach the Earth's surface.
• UVB radiation is high-energy and can penetrate human skin, causing direct damage to DNA. This cumulative damage is the leading cause of various types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma.
• Besides skin cancer, increased UV radiation is also linked to other health issues like cataracts (eye damage) and a weakened immune system.
• It does not have a direct, scientifically proven link to liver cancer, neurological disorders, or digestive system damage, as these organs are protected by internal tissues and do not face direct UV exposure.
• The Montreal Protocol (1987) was an international treaty designed specifically to phase out the substances that deplete the ozone layer to mitigate these prime health risks.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Increased skin cancer is a prime health risk associated with greater UV radiation.