Increased sun exposure is associated with reduced incidence of prostate cancer, a disease that affects 1 in 6 men, according to new research published in the journal Cancer.

Researchers from New York University School of Medicine examined prostate cancer incidence data and UV indices across the U.S. and identified lower rates in both white and black men living in areas with greater amounts of UV. Rates in the sunniest areas were 18.9% to 23.7% lower than in areas with the least sunshine. Skin type was also found to be a factor, as rates were higher for black men, but the disparity decreased in areas with increased UV.

Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in American men.

“We observed a decrease in prostate cancer incidence with increasing levels of the UV index,” the study authors concluded. “We also observed a reduction in the racial disparity in prostate cancer incidence in areas with moderately high UV indices compared with those with lower UV indices.”

Click here for more details of the study from the Vitamin D Council.

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