ExclusiveCould Melanoma Be Prevented (Not Caused) by Sunlight?｜Vital Signs

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Such dangers prompt many people to stay out of the sun. But could sun-avoiding behavior actually be to our own peril? A Swedish study shows a surprising relationship between sun-avoiding behavior and mortality.

Internal medicine and sleep specialist Dr. Robert Seheult says diseases, like dementia and diabetes, have increased as people spend less time in the sun. Psychiatrist Dr. Jingduan Yang describes patients with depression who sleep on the ‘sunny side’ of the bed leaving hospital earlier than those who don’t.

Traditional Chinese medicine focuses on the connection between the human body and nature. To Dr. Yang, the body’s circadian rhythm is like an internal sun inside of us. Is it a coincidence that the vast majority of his patients with mental illness have correspondingly low levels of vitamin D?

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Vital Signs’ host, guests, and contributors offer general information on improving health and wellness. This is not intended as diagnosis or medical advice. You should consult your medical doctor or holistic doctor before enacting any suggested strategies for health and wellness improvement, including those in relation to preventing or treating specific diseases featured on this program.