Study in Puerto Rico finds lower risk of breast cancer with more sun exposure
It’s always sunny in San Juan, Puerto Rico, which makes the findings of a new study on breast cancer and sun exposure noteworthy.
Work by researchers from UB and the University of Puerto Rico showed a lower risk of breast cancer associated with greater sun exposure. Researchers used a chromameter to compare skin pigmentation in unexposed and exposed skin in 307 cases of breast cancer and 328 women without breast cancer. The difference in skin pigmentation provided an estimate of usual sun exposure.
Work by researchers from UB and the University of Puerto Rico showed a lower risk of breast cancer associated with greater sun exposure. Researchers used a chromameter to compare skin pigmentation in unexposed and exposed skin in 307 cases of breast cancer and 328 women without breast cancer. The difference in skin pigmentation provided an estimate of usual sun exposure.
There is some, albeit inconsistent, evidence that sun exposure is associated with lower risk of breast cancer. A number of reasons may explain this finding, says Freudenheim.
“One step in the internal production of vitamin D occurs when skin is exposed to sun,” she said. “Sun exposure also affects the body in...other helpful ways, with effects on inflammation, obesity and circadian rhythms. While recent recommendations have been to limit sun exposure to prevent skin cancer, some sun exposure, especially exposure without sunburn, may provide benefits.”
Previous studies have been conducted in places that experience seasonal variation in ultraviolet radiation. Puerto Rico has no significant seasonal fluctuation, resulting in potentially continuous exposure to high UV radiation for those who spend time outdoors.