Approved by the Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Osteoporosis Australia, The Australasian College of Dermatologists and The Cancer Council Australia

New guidelines on sun exposure and vitamin D deficiency have been recently released. Importantly these guidelines were developed from experts in both the skin cancer and osteoporosis fields. These guidelines will help inform Australians about how much sun they need to avoid vitamin D deficiency and at the same time stay healthy without increasing their risk of skin cancer.

Recommendations from the new guidelines:

• Fair skinned people can maintain adequate vitamin D levels in summer from a few minutes of exposure to sunlight on their face, arms and hands or the equivalent area of skin on either side of the peak UV Index periods on most days of the week.
• In winter in the southern parts of Australia, where UV radiation levels are less intense, people need about 2-3 hours of sunlight to the face, arms and hands or equivalent area of skin over a week.

Resources

 Risks and Benefits of Sun Exposure Position Statement: (245.32 KB)
Approved by the Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Osteoporosis Australia, The Australasian College of Dermatologists and The Cancer Council Australia

The Cancer Council Victoria Media Release 18 June 2007 - A little ray of sunshine – but not too much - important for health

Content updated June 22, 2007