IOP Groups

Life can be so sweet - on the sunny side of the street

9 July 2005

Or at least it can be for teenagers who are producing insufficient amounts of vitamin-D. Professor Brian Diffey, of the Medical Physics Department of Newcastle General Hospital, says that one in 10 adolescents do not get enough sunshine.

A weekly dose of sunlight, by exposing the face, hands and arms, would be beneficial and would provide the body's requirement for vitamin D throughout the year. However, if only hands and face are displayed, twice as much exposure is needed. Prof Diffey said his advice for children to spend more time outside was compatible with anti-skin cancer campaigns and that they should "take the opportunity to walk on the sunny side of the street".

Cancer Research UK recommends that people follow the SUNSMART code;

• Stay in the shade 11am-3pm
• Make sure you never burn
• Always cover up with a hat, T-shirt and sunglasses
• Remember to take extra care with children
• Then use lots of factor 15+ sunscreen.

Also: report any mole changes or unusual skin growths promptly to your doctor.

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