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Are Kids Getting Enough Vitamin D?
By Richard Eisen, M.D. and Ramzi Saad, M.D.
One of the ways children get their Vitamin D requirement is simply by being outdoors. Solar UV exposure produces Vitamin D in the body, an important vitamin that may help to prevent colon, breast and other cancers. But, now, there is controversy among physicians and scientists as to whether children who wear sunscreen are absorbing enough Vitamin D.
Malignant melanoma (the deadly form of skin cancer) is the number one cancer diagnosed in young white females in the U.S. and the fourth most common cancer among teens. As dermatologists, we recommend that children and teens take protective measures and use sunblock or sunscreen prior to UV exposure.
But, does the use of sunscreen block UV exposure and thwart Vitamin D production?
Drs. Richard Eisen and Ramzi Saad, dermatologists at South Shore Skin Center, a leading dermatology office treating a vast clientele south of Boston, weigh in on this controversy, “All unprotected sun exposure contributes to cumulative skin damage and increases the risk of skin cancer. The amount of UV exposure needed to produce Vitamin D in the body is minimal - about 5 to 10 minutes of exposure. After 10 minutes of exposure, the body has had enough and stops its production of Vitamin D. Sunscreen doesn’t entirely prevent UV exposure, but it does minimize it. So, essentially, the UV is still getting through, but at a much less dangerous level.”
Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun or from tanning booths cause premature wrinkles, DNA damage and skin cancer with repeated and prolonged exposure. In natural sunlight, these rays are present even on cloudy days and exposed skin is left vulnerable without sunblock or sunscreen.
South Shore Skin Center’s recommendations are to continue using sunblock or sunscreen to aid in the prevention of skin cancer.
For parents who are concerned about whether or not their child is getting enough Vitamin D, there are other effective alternatives to getting enough Vitamin D without the unprotected UV exposure. Boosting consumption of Vitamin D fortified foods or taking a vitamin supplement are both easy ways to meet daily Vitamin D requirements.
Protecting Against Skin Cancer
The skin cancer melanoma can spread to other parts of the body, but it often may be cured in its early stages, IF it is detected early. Children and adults should take these important measures in the prevention of skin cancer:
• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
• Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
• Use ample amounts of sunscreen or sunblock with an SPF of 15 or higher every day, even if it is cloudy.
• Wear large framed or wrap-around sunglasses to protect the eye area.
• Have your skin checked by a dermatologist regularly.
• Note any moles or other spots on the skin that have changed.
Have them checked as soon as possible.
Richard Eisen, M.D. and Ramzi Saad, M.D.
Dr. Richard Eisen and Dr. Ramzi Saad are Board Certified Dermatologists at South Shore Skin Center and Medical Spa. Founded in 1984, South Shore Skin Center and Medical Spa is one of Massachusetts’ most progressive dermatology practices offering a wide range of medical, surgical and cosmetic services to thousands of clients south of Boston.
South Shore Skin Center and Medical Spa offices are located at 223 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Suite 202 in Cohasset, Mass. (781) 383-3340, and One Scobee Circle, Unit 3 (across from Colony Place) in Plymouth, Mass., (508) 747-0711. For more information, visit the website at www.southshoreskincenter.com.
View all articles by Richard Eisen, M.D. and Ramzi Saad, M.D.
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