The need for using sunscreen all year round has been highlighted by Prof. Tim Spector (health expert Tim Spector criticized for comments about using sunscreen all year round, May 13). In a diverse country like Britain, it is crucial to provide nuanced public health messages about sun protection that include all citizens.
The 2021 Census highlights Britain’s ethnic diversity, with London being the most ethnically diverse region in England. With a latitude of 51.5072, London has an average UV index of 0-2 between the months of October and March. Statistical data shows lower rates of skin cancer among Britain’s ethnic minorities, largely due to their melanin-rich skin, which provides some innate UV protection. Furthermore, in this cohort, melanoma skin cancers typically occur in areas of the body that are not exposed to the sun.
Scientific data also indicates that vitamin D deficiency is more common among ethnic minority groups in Britain. Increased melanin levels in the skin, a lower UV index and covering most of the skin with clothing outdoors have been identified as contributing factors.
Vitamin D is necessary for healthy bones and muscles, and a deficiency is associated with osteomalacia and rickets. A deficiency of this vitamin is also increasingly linked to cancer, autoimmune diseases and cardiovascular disease.
Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels goes beyond intake through diet or supplements. A growing body of evidence indicates that sunlight exposure confers clear health benefits independent of vitamin D synthesis.
Current scientific evidence does not support year-round use of sunscreen by Britain’s ethnic minority population when there is no medical indication. The low UV index during the winter months, the common vitamin D deficiency and the lower rate of skin cancer among the ethnic minority population call for a reappraisal of the generic approach to sun protection, which does not take into account skin color .
Dr. Ophelia E. Dadzie
Consultant dermatologist, Chalgrove, Oxfordshire