Sun 'protects against cancer'

Sun 'protects against cancer'
Story from BBC NEWS:
Published: 2003/11/21 10:27:30 GMT


Sun 'protects against cancer'

Staying out of the sun completely may increase your chances of developing
cancer, say doctors.

For years, experts have advised people to cover up in the sun to protect
themselves from skin cancer.

But a letter in this week's British Medical Journal warns people against
taking this advice to the extreme.

Professor Cedric Garland from the University of California said a lack of
sun can reduce levels of vitamin D, which may increase the risk of cancer.
The sun is a major source of vitamin D. Studies have suggested this
vitamin can protect against colon, breast, prostate and other cancers.

Sun exposure Professor Garland said people living in Britain should ensure they are get between 10 and 15 minutes of sun exposure each day, weather permitting.

"Residents of the UK should aim for 10 to 15 minutes a day in the sun when
the weather allows, without sunscreen to allow adequate synthesis of vitamin D," he wrote.

Our diet is also an important source of Vitamin D
Sara Hiom, Cancer Research UK

He also suggested they should supplement their diets to ensure they are
getting enough vitamin D, particularly during winter.

To read the full article: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/3226184.stm