Weighing Benefits of Vitamin D Against Skin Cancer Risk

Research has long confirmed the link between skin cancer and exposure to ultra-violet radiation from the sun. Recent evidence indicates, however, that the body's production of Vitamin D, as a result of sun exposure may lower the risk of some forms of cancer, in particular colorectal cancer.

"We recognize that these messages are confusing for people," said Dr. Richard Langley, chair of Sun Safe Nova Scotia and a member of Cancer Care Nova Scotia's skin cancer site team. "For years, we've been stressing the importance of protecting yourself from the sun's powerful rays and now many reports in the media seem to be suggesting that ultra-violet radiation from the sun is good for you. Sun Awareness Week, May 29 - June 4, is an opportunity to provide some context to these conflicting messages.

"While ultra-violet radiation does help the body produce vitamin D, which is important to our overall health, a little sun exposure goes a very long way. It only takes a few minutes of sun on a sunny day to achieve the recommended level of vitamin D," said Dr. Langley. "It is also possible to get your needed vitamin D by eating foods fortified with it or through supplements. While a small amount of sun exposure has some health benefits, we know that more than a little exposure reverses these benefits. Protecting yourself from the sun remains a very important way to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer."

This information is particularly important for people living in Nova Scotia as the province has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in Canada. This year alone, about 2,500 Nova Scotians are expected to be diagnosed with non-melanoma or melanoma skin cancer. Those at highest risk for skin cancer have lightly coloured skin, hair and eyes. Because sun exposure also causes eye damage, premature aging of the skin and immuno-suppression, sun safety is important for all Nova Scotians.

Among the suggested actions for sun protection are: reducing sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. - when UV rays are the strongest; wearing protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat planning outdoor activities in shaded areas; wearing sun glasses with UV protection; using a broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB protection) with an SPF of 15 or greater and avoiding the use of tanning beds.

"Ninety per cent of skin cancers are preventable and research indicates that the most important years for sun protection are during childhood and adolescence," said Maureen Summers, executive director of the Canadian Cancer Society, Nova Scotia division. "Exposure to UV radiation during the younger years greatly increases the chance of developing skin cancer later in life."

Cancer Care Nova Scotia initiated Sun Safe Nova Scotia in spring 2004 to address skin cancer prevention. The coalition, chaired by Dr. Langley and supported by Judy Purcell, prevention coordinator, Cancer Care Nova Scotia, includes members from the Department of Health Promotion and Protection; Canadian Dermatology Association; Nova Scotia Pharmacy Association; Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources; the Atlantic Health Promotion Research Centre; Canadian Cancer Society, Nova Scotia division, and other groups committed to reducing skin cancer incidence and mortality in Nova Scotia.