How much sun do Mancunians need?
October 2006Researchers in the School of Medicine’s Division of Medicine and Neurosciences are investigating the potential impact of the region’s cloudy skies on our physical health.
In a study funded by Cancer Research UK, they are looking at how effective Manchester sunlight is at raising vitamin D levels to the level the body needs. The vitamin is essential for healthy bones and a range of other organs, but found naturally in only a few foods.
Lead researcher Dr Lesley Rhodes said: “Sunlight, acting through the skin, is essential for the body to produce vitamin D - and there is good evidence that the levels needed for bone health are higher than previously thought. But excess sunlight exposure causes skin cancers, while at the other end of the spectrum some people may not get the sunlight exposure they need.
“We therefore need to find out exactly how much sun exposure is required for adequate vitamin D levels. This will ensure public health messages give accurate advice on the levels and patterns of sun exposure that enhance vitamin D, while avoiding the side-effects of excess exposure.”
In this study the team is assessing how effective sunlight levels in Greater Manchester are at synthesising sufficient vitamin D, and looking for healthy volunteers aged 20 - 60.
Clinical research nurse Marie Durkin said: “One group of volunteers will be given a course of simulated sunlight exposure using medicinal lamps this winter, while another will be monitored throughout the coming year to assess the impact of local sunlight exposure. The effect on vitamin D levels will be assessed through blood samples.”
Dr Rhodes concluded: “The results of the study will inform public health messages on recommended sunlight exposure, not just in Manchester but across the UK.”
Anyone interested in taking part should contact Marie on 0161 206 3143. Reimbursement is available for the time and any inconvenience involved.
