Simple precautions like covering up when under the sun could decrease deaths.
Dr Maria Neira, Director for Public Health and the Environment at WHO, told the BBC: "We all need some sun, but too much sun can be dangerous - and even deadly.
She added, "Fortunately, diseases from UV such as malignant melanomas, other skin cancers and cataracts are almost entirely preventable through simple protective measures."
The WHO estimates that more than 1.5 million "disability-adjusted life years" or DALYS, measuring the loss of the body's functionality due to disease and death, are gone every year due to sun exposure.
WHO and the World Tourism Organization of the United Nations are warning people to be conscious of sun exposure and to appropriately protect yourself.
Laura-Jane Armstrong, cancer information officer at Cancer Research UK, said: "This report provides clear evidence of the dangers of over-exposure to the sun, highlighting the number of global deaths from skin cancer and other risks the sun can pose to our health.
"Our key message is not to burn. To help protect yourself in the sun you should spend time in the shade during the middle of the day, cover up with a shirt and hat, and use factor 15+ sunscreen," she told BBC.
