Sunlight in moderation is good for us but overexposure to sunlight has the same effect on our skin as superficial thermal burns. Sunlight can improve acne, provide a source of Vitamin D and, in the west, a tan is still largely considered a sign of health. So, sunlight has its good and bad points.
We are now used to warnings about the damage that the sun can do and statistics on skin cancer cases are worrying. There has been a two-thirds increase in skin cancer since 1990, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. In the US the American Cancer Society estimates that about 33,580 men and 26,000 women will be diagnosed with melanoma this year. About 7,770 men and women would die of the disease.
Recently there has been some confusing findings in research on our skin and the effects of the sun. The link between the harmful effects of exposure to ultraviolet rays and skin cancer are being questioned. A researcher from the University of Manchester, England, has supported other research findings from Harvard University to say that blocking the sunblock creams can interfere with Vitamin D production and fighting some forms of cancer.
Sun exposure might help fight cancer?
So the very thing that causes skin cancers has a role in fighting cancer. Part of the reason is that our sources of vitamin D are small if you factor out the sun. Vitamin D is found in only a few types of food, things like sardines. Most men don't have a diet rich in sardines so the sun is the main vitamin source. Sunscreen stops UV rays damaging skin but stops the production of vitamin D too.
Sun damage warnings exaggerated?
No. Don't rip off your shirt, forget the sunscreen and ignore the traditional warnings. The research, while recognizing the positive role of the sun in contributing to our health and fighting cancer, says we do need brief exposure. The definition of brief is a very short period of sunlight. The British research defines the short period of tan time without sunscreen as 10 to 15 minutes at noon! I do not need to tell you about the weather in England to tell you that equivalents in places with very strong sunlight might factor down to a very short time indeed.
Recommendations for sun exposure
It is too early to change our recommendations on sun exposure and sunscreen. More studies will be required on the potential benefits of vitamin D as an anti cancer agent before anything changes.
It's not worth the risk.
Skin cancer, especially melanoma is life threatening. Use tanning lotions if you want the look without the risk. They are easy to apply and it is difficult to tell the difference. Then put on your shades, your sunscreen and your T-shirt this summer and have a good time.
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Article Source: Dr Webb 2005 University of Manchester