Less Sunlight Exposure, Linked to Endometrial Cancer

Filed in archive Cancer , Dietary Supplements and Vitamins , Women's Health on November 20, 2007

Endometrial cancer or cancer of the endometrium has been found highly associated to deficiency in exposure to sunlight, specifically ultraviolet B (UVB).

UVB exposure triggers photosynthesis of vitamin D3 in the body. This form of vitamin D is also available through diet and supplements. Previous studies from this research team have shown associations between higher levels of vitamin D3 and lower risk of cancers of the breast, colon, kidney and ovary.

According to Cedric F. Garland, Dr. P.H., professor of Family and Preventive Medicine in the UCSD School of Medicine, and member of the Moores UCSD Cancer Center:

"This is the first study, to our knowledge, to show that higher serum levels of vitamin D are associated with reduced risk of endometrial cancer.

Previous epidemiological studies have focused on estrogen levels - either natural or through hormone replacement therapy - which play the major role in development of the disease, and on fat intake, which plays a smaller role.

Since most women cannot control their natural levels of estrogen, and very low levels of fat intake are not acceptable to most American women, this article provides evidence that vitamin D adequacy should be considered as part of a comprehensive program for prevention of this cancer."

Well, I could really use some sunlight these days, we've been under angry skies lately. Make sure you get a daily dose of healthy sunlight, it's free anyway.

The above findings appeared in an article published November 16, 2007, in the journal Preventive Medicine.

Find more details from University of California - San Diego.