THE TIMES
Sunlight and
cancer From Dr Richard Petty
Sir, There is now
positive evidence that an important factor in the aetiology of
prostate cancer is lack of vitamin D. Little vitamin D is
derived from food; most is formed in the skin in response to
ultra violet light. Experts recommend adequate vitamin D
nutrition should be a priority for men of all ages. To achieve
this, a daily exposure to sunlight of 20 minutes is
required.
It is unfortunate that this is not taken into
consideration by Cancer Research UK in its SunSmart campaign
(report and leading article, March 23). There may be 1,600
deaths annually from melanoma, but there are more than 10,000
deaths annually from prostate cancer.
Yours
faithfully RICHARD PETTY (Medical
Director) WellMan Clinic 32 Weymouth Street, W1G
7BU March 23, 2005
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Previously this very marked difference in the
incidence of prostate cancer between northern and more southerly
latitudes was put down to the greater fat content in northern
diets.
Undoubtedly cholesterol does play some part in the
genesis of prostate cancer, but the evidence now available as to the
role of vitamin D is so powerful that it is proposed by some
authorities that it should be used not only to prevent prostate
cancer, but also to treat it.
The recommended dosage for
vitamin D supplementation is between 1000 and 2000 iu daily.
Unfortunately a suitable formulation is not available in the UK and
so The WellMan Clinic is importing a pure 1000 iu
preparation.
The cost is £24 for 180 capsules.
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