Many experts now claim that a bit of sun is good for you but Too much and you risk skin cancer. Other experts warn of rising skin cancer rates, but too little and you’ll lack vitamin D. So just how much sun should we all get? A great article was published on www.mirror.co.uk that might help to sort out this confusing issue.
We’ve been told the UK has a serious case of vitamin D deficiency, potentially putting two-thirds of us at higher risk of conditions including heart disease, thinning bones and depression.
To combat this, experts are suggesting we boost our levels of the nutrient, which is made by the body from the action of sunlight on skin, by spending time outdoors. At the same time, rates of malignant melanomas – the most deadly form of skin cancer – are increasing faster than for any other cancer in the UK. So understandably, doctors are insisting it’s vital to use plenty of suncream and to avoid roasting in the sun for hours. But how do we strike the right balance and stay healthy while enjoying summer weather?
The Vitamin D dilemma: sorted
The trick is to bathe quickly but not to burn. Cancer Research UK spokeswoman Yinka Ebo said: “Yes, we need some sun to make vitamin D, but the most important thing is still to avoid getting sunburnt, as it increases your risk of the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
“The good news is, it’s perfectly possible to strike the balance between making enough vitamin D and not raising your risk of skin cancer as the amount of time in the sun that you need to make enough of the nutrient is less than makes your skin redden.”
According to the British Association of Dermatologists, the best way to do this is to get a few minutes of sun around the middle of the day without sunscreen, and the more skin exposed for that short time the better.
In practice this means 15 to 20 minutes of sunlight per day. Research shows extra time in the sun doesn’t mean you produce more vitamin D, but does raise your risk of skin cancer.
If you are sunbathing for longer then of course it is vital to have a sensible approach to sunscreen.
Sunscreen sense
- Choose an SPF of at least 15 (30 for children).
- Pick a “broad-spectrum” brand that protects against UVA – the more stars it has, the better.
- Check the expiry date – all sunscreens stop working properly as they age.
- Use more – research indicates most people only apply 25-50% of the recommended amount. You need around two tablespoonfuls of sunscreen to cover your body.
- Reapply regularly, especially after going swimming.
- Don’t miss areas of skin. A recent study found the areas most prone to neglect are the temples, ears and the back of the neck.
DIY mole checks
It is a good idea to check your own moles regularly. Simply ask yourself the following ABCDE question and see your GP immediately if you notice anything worrying…
- Asymmetrical shape – Is one half of the mole unlike the other?
- Border irregularity – Is the mole outline irregular or jagged?
- Colour – Is it uneven with more than one shade?
- Diameter – Is it bigger than 6mm?
- Evolving – Is it new or changing size, shape or colour?
Disclaimer
All content on this website is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Always consult your own GP if you’re in any way concerned about your health.