Prolonged exposure to the ‘Ultra-Violet (UV) Radiations’ could be a major cause for developing skin cancer despite the health advantages of vitamin D. Health experts at the ‘American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)’ accept that vitamin D is essential for optimal health of a person but the risks coupled with the UV-source is far more severe and it requires a cautious approach.

Skin Cancer

Health experts and dermatologists are of the view that appropriate amount of vitamin D can easily be obtained from natural sources like vitamin D enriched foodstuffs, fortified foods, vitamin-rich beverages, and varieties of multi-vitamin supplements. Any deliberate attempt to get exposed to the ultra-violet radiations would be harmful instead.

The exposure to the ultra-violet radiations could be natural as well as artificial. Sun is the natural source of ultra-violet radiations and various types of man made devices including tanning devices are among the artificial sources of ultra-violet radiations. Both these sources provide good amount of vitamin D to the human body but they are the safer ones, according to the ‘American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)’.

Substantial evidences available today clearly indicate that prolonged exposure to the ultra-violet radiations in any form contributes to the higher probability of developing melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Dr. Hanke at the AAD says,”when you are enjoying yourself outdoors, be smart by taking steps to protect yourself and reduce risks of skin cancer”.

There certain specific precautions that the experts advise for the individuals who intentionally expose themselves to ultra-violet radiations for obtaining vitamin D. One should seek shade whenever and wherever it is possible. Wearing sunscreen and covering up with a wide-brimmed hat would be of much help .While wearing one should ensure long sleeves, pants, and sunglasses always when coming out in bright sunlight. Tanning beds which generally emit ultra-violet radiations must be avoided in any case.

According to AAD, one in every five Americans bear high risks of developing skin cancer during their lifetime. This year almost 116,500 people in the United States alone are expected to be diagnosed with melanoma, the most severe type of skin cancer. Nearly 8,420 people out of all these expected cases would probably die of this disease this year, according to AAD.

Researchers have yet to calculate the exact amount of vitamin D which is the optimum for an individual. It is time when everyone must be concerned about its source of vitamin D. It should preferably be discussed with the doctor about obtaining sufficient amount of vitamin D from all possible healthy foodstuffs, according to the recommendations of the ‘American Academy of Dermatology’.

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