Most people are familiar with the fact that over-exposure to sunlight can increase the risk for skin cancer. However, with the right precautions, exposure to the UV rays in sunlight can actually decrease the risk of developing other types of cancer.
Sunlight and Cancer
Exposure to sunlight without protection and during the times of day when UV rays are the most intense can definitely lead to skin cancer. This can be especially true for individuals who have a history of sun burns. The best times to go outside are before 10 a.m. and after 3 p.m. in the afternoon. Also, wearing sun screen and protective clothing is recommended.
However, going outside into the sun using these precautions can actually help prevent 12 different kinds of cancer. In a large scale study that examined incidents of cancer in 750,000 people who spent time in the sun, it was discovered that cancer of the thyroid, liver, pancreas, lungs, colon and prostate actually decreased. Also, it was found that men had more significant improvement in lowering their risk of cancer to reproductive organs than women. However, this may be accounted for by the fact that men typically spend more time outside in the sun than women.
While this study, and others that have shown the same results, is not a recommendation to spend hours and hours in the sun without taking protective measures, it can be an indication that spending a few hours outside might provide you with health benefits. Anytime you go outside, you should wear sun protective clothing and organic, non-chemical laden sun screen and do your best to avoid going out in the middle of the day when the sun is at its strongest.
– The Alternative Daily
