Debate over safety of midday sun
While the experts argue and continue to give mixed messages on this issue, can I just point out that while 10 minutes a day of sunshine is recomended and is very good for skin, it is short bursts of sunshine at midday that cause a deadly form of Skin cancer, due to multiple short and intermitent hits of UV radiation.
“But a team from the University of Manchester argues that a short burst of sunshine on unprotected skin at noon can maximise vitamin D production.”Dr Ann Webb
On the last day of Melanoma month I’m very concerned that the latest messages about vitamin D are encouraging people to bask in the sun. It’s ok to be out in the sun (which it really is beneficial) but people might take that as a justification for seeking the sun, which is dangerous at high noon. Melanoma sometimes occurs most frequently in those individuals who seek shade and stay inside, who’s lifestyle leads them to be inside, but who binge bathe unintentionally, for example walking around the park with no protection. The very nature of Melanoma makes it extreamly difficult to tell people how to reduce the risk of it, because it can be trigged by being sensible about sun exposure. It is very difficult to get a clear message on this, but the strong message which isn’t getting out is moderation and common sense doing what you think is right.
So while they fight their corners, we’ll continue to stay firm on common sense. Base tanning once a week before a holiday isn’t common sense!