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             Study: Oxybenzone in Sunscreen Linked to Coral Damage

   by VOA News

   Using sunscreen can cut your risk of developing some of the most
   dangerous forms of skin cancer by 50 percent. Unfortunately, a new
   study suggests it also may be doing severe damage to already threatened
   coral reefs around the world.

   The [1]research was done by the University of Central Florida and
   published in Tuesday's Archives of Environmental Contamination and
   Toxicology.

   The study tested the water around coral reefs in Hawaii and the
   Caribbean, and found a high concentration of Oxybenzone in the water.

   Oxybenzone is one of the most common ingredients in sunscreen, but it
   can do severe damage to fragile Coral Reefs.

   According to the research, the chemical not only kills coral, but it
   also causes DNA damage in adult coral, and deforms the larvae.

   One member of the research team, John Fauth said damaging coral reefs
   doesn't just harm the coral, but it can affect humans, as well.

   "Coral reefs are the world's most productive marine ecosystems and
   support commercial and recreational fisheries and tourism," Fauth said.
   "In addition, reefs protect coastlines from storm surge. Worldwide, the
   total value of coral reefs is tremendous. And they are in danger."

   So how can we still protect ourselves from the sun, and enjoy the
   water?

   Fauth recommends "rash guards, or scuba wetsuits." There also is a
   whole new generation of swimwear that has built-in sun protection.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [2]http://www.voanews.com/content/study-finds-oxybenzone-used-in-sunscr
   een-linked-to-coral-damage/3015488.html

References

   1. http://today.ucf.edu/lathering-up-with-sunscreen-may-protect-against-cancer-killing-coral-reefs-worldwide
   2. http://www.voanews.com/content/study-finds-oxybenzone-used-in-sunscreen-linked-to-coral-damage/3015488.html