Is your sunscreen more blocked than just UV rays? Vitamin D deficiency and stunning link between skin cancer (image credit: istock)
The relationship between vitamin D, skin cancer and sunscreen is often misunderstood. While vitamin D deficiency has been linked to high cancer mortality, including skin cancer, sunscreen is necessary in protecting from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Vitamin D is naturally produced in the skin when exposure to sunlight, especially in contact with ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Studies suggest that adequate vitamin D levels can help regulate cell growth and discrimination, possibly reduce the risk of some cancer such as colorectal and breast cancer.
How Vitamin D affects cancer risk
Some experimental studies also indicate that vitamin D may help to promote natural death of malignant cells, inhibit the formation of blood vessels in the tumors and to slow down the progression of skin cancer in controlling their rapid growth.
However, the relationship between vitamin D and skin cancer is complex. While high vitamin D levels are associated with an increased phenomenon of skin cancer like melanoma, it does not mean that vitamin D causes cancer. Instead, it suggests that people who spend more time in the sun, which increase the level of vitamin D, can also withstand a high risk of sun damage to skin cancer.
A dermatologist and researcher at the University of Edinburgh, Dr. “While the risk of the sun is the primary source of vitamin D, excessive risk may increase the risk of skin cancer. The key is looking for a balance to maximize benefits while reducing risks.”
Sunscreen and its role in skin protection
Sunscreen plays an important role in molding the skin from UV rays, which is a famous cause of skin cancer. Regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen significantly reduces the risk of developing melanoma and non-melonoma skin cancer by blocking or absorbing harmful radiation. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, applied generously and re -applied every two hours while staying out.
One concern is that sunscreen can limit the ability of the skin to produce vitamin D. However, research indicates that even with proper sunscreen use, people still receive a risk of sufficient sun during daily activities to maintain healthy vitamin D levels. In addition, vitamin D can be obtained from dietary sources such as fatty fish, stronghold foods and supplements reduce the need for excessive sun exposure.
Former President of the American Academy of Dermatology, Dr. “The use of sunscreen does not cause vitamin D deficiency. Most people get adequate vitamin D from brief sunlight and diet sources. Prioritizing the sun safety reduces the risk of skin cancer.”
Balance of balance
Balance sun risk and skin protection is important. People should aim to achieve sufficient sunlight for vitamin D production while reducing the risk of skin damage. Experts suggest a brief sun risk (about 10–15 minutes a week) on unsafe skin before applying sunscreen. However, people with high risk for skin cancer should rely on diet sources and supplements instead.
A meta-analysis of the National Library of Medicine did not cause any direct evidence from the increasing risk of melanoma connecting vitamin D deficiency. However, it has been suggested that low vitamin D levels may be associated with coarse tumors in diagnosis and worse results.
A Harvard Dermatologist Dr. Deon Volpovitz, says, “Sunscreen is an important tool to prevent skin cancer. The idea that it significantly prevents vitamin D production.
While vitamin D plays an important role in overall health, which involves the prevention of cancer, excessive exposure to the sun increases the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen remains an important tool in reducing this risk. The best way is to maintain a balanced sun contact, use sunscreen properly, and the diet includes vitamin D-rich foods or supplements in the diet to support overall well-being.
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