IPB University Expert: Lack of Sun Exposure Can Double the Risk of Death
Sun exposure not only affects mood, but also a person’s health and life expectancy.
dr Christy Efiyanti, SpPD, FINASIM, a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, IPB University, explained that people who are accustomed to active sun exposure generally have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and non-cancer/non-CVD mortality.
According to dr Christy, various studies have shown that inadequate sun exposure can significantly increase the risk of mortality.
“Research in the last decade shows that lack of sun exposure may be responsible for 340.000 deaths in the United States and 480.000 deaths in Europe each year,” she said.
This condition, she continued, is also associated with an increase in the incidence of breast cancer, colorectal cancer, hypertension, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, and autism.
She explained that sunlight plays a major role in helping the body produce vitamin D, which is needed to maintain immunity, bone health, and metabolic function.
“Adequate exposure to sunlight can improve a person’s vitamin D status. Conversely, vitamin D deficiency often occurs in individuals who rarely engage in outdoor activities,” she explained.
The Best Time to Sunbathe
Regarding the best time to sunbathe, dr Christy said that ideal sun exposure depends on the time of day, season, latitude, weather conditions, and skin color.
“Melanin (natural pigment) in the skin acts as a barrier that affects the absorption of ultraviolet B rays. Generally, people with fair skin need 5-15 minutes of sun exposure 2-3 times a week,” she said.
A study in the UK recommends 9–13 minutes of exposure at lunchtime between March and September. In Indonesia, research by Prof Siti Setiati shows that 25 minutes of ultraviolet B exposure three times a week for six weeks can significantly increase vitamin D levels.
dr Christy also advised the public not to be afraid of activities under the sun. “Increase outdoor activities and make it a habit to sunbathe every day. Don’t forget to get checked to find out your vitamin D status,” she said. (dr) (IAAS/LAN)
