How do the “risks and benefits” of moderate UV radiation exposure net out?
The protective benefits of UV radiation are undeniable. Warnings about limited and sensible exposure to the sun or UV radiation are greatly exaggerated. Several researchers, most notably Dr. William Grant have published peer-reviewed articles that demonstrate, that in America, for example, increased sun exposure would result in 185,000 fewer cases of internal cancer and 30,000 fewer deaths from cancer of the breast, ovaries, colon, prostate, bladder, uterus, esophagus, rectum and stomach. By comparison, about 7500 die each year from skin cancer. UV exposure also protects against the development of multiple sclerosis, a devastating autoimmune disease. During adolescence, higher sun exposure (average 2-3 hours or more a day in summer during weekends and holidays) is associated with a 69% decreased risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Similar protective benefits of sun exposure and/or increase in the intake of vitamin D have been reported with other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid a
