(NaturalNews) Skin cancer, in all its forms, is one of the most frequently diagnosed kinds of cancer both in the United States and abroad. And while some forms of this condition are easily treatable and have a good prognosis, others like melanoma can prove deadly, mostly due to the fact that they can spread easily to other parts of the body. Historically, people have been counselled to use sunscreen, protective clothing, hats and other measures to avoid the UV exposure that can lead to skin cancer development. Artificial tanning beds, with their intense UV rays, have also been criticized as unhealthy. However, recent research has found that high levels of certain vitamins can also help to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer - and many researchers are now saying that at least some exposure to sunlight is not as bad as once was thought.

Vitamin D and skin cancer

The vitamin at issue here is vitamin D. It is needed by the human body for health, but there are very few natural foods which contain it and most people agree that at least moderate exposure to sunlight is the best way to make sure that levels of this vitamin are adequate. When sunlight hits the skin, a reaction occurs which activates vitamin D and allows it to be used easily by the body. Research has found that having adequate levels of vitamin D in the body not only reduces the risk of melanoma - the most serious form of skin cancer - but of other forms of cancer as well.

This does not mean it is ok to get out in the sun for hours and hours without protection or to use tanning beds daily. UV exposure has definitely been linked to several forms of skin cancer. However, complete avoidance of any kind of sunlight is not beneficial either. What is best appears to be moderate exposure on a daily basis to keep levels of vitamin D adequate and to take advantage of the protection this vitamin can give when it comes to preventing skin cancer.

Vitamin B3 and skin cancer

Recent research coming out of Australia has found that vitamin B3 can also help to reduce the risk of skin cancer, especially for those who are most prone to it. In this latest study, 386 patients with a history of either basal or squamous cell carcinoma (common but less serious forms of skin cancer) were given 1000mg of vitamin B3 or a placebo daily. At the end of the study, those who had taken the B3 were found to have a 23 percent reduced risk of re-developing cancer. The chances of developing pre-cancerous lesions were also reduced by 20 percent.

Thus it appears that when it comes to skin cancer, certain vitamins can play an important role in preventing the recurrence of skin cancer or even its onset. And it also appears that at least some sunlight exposure is beneficial for this, though it is still advisable to avoid the use of tanning beds or exposure during the middle part of the day when the UV rays are highest.

Sources:

http://www.cancer.gov

http://www.cbsnews.com

http://www.skincancer.org

About the author:
Sofiya has written articles on most health-related topics, including traditional medicine, alternative and naturopathic and natural treatments,health insurance, wellness, medical marijuana, diets and fitness.