{"id":26884,"date":"2025-05-01T10:08:14","date_gmt":"2025-05-01T14:08:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/?p=26884"},"modified":"2025-05-01T10:08:14","modified_gmt":"2025-05-01T14:08:14","slug":"10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/","title":{"rendered":"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health"},"content":{"rendered":"<h4>GrassrootsHealth Celebrates a Decade of Empowering the Public with Science-Backed Sunshine Education<\/h4>\n<p><strong>ENCINITAS, CA (May 1, 2025)<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 This May, GrassrootsHealth proudly celebrates the\u00a0<em><strong>10th Annual Sunshine Month<\/strong><\/em>, a campaign that has educated millions over the past decade about the critical role of sensible sunshine exposure in maintaining optimal health, preventing disease, and promoting longevity.<\/p>\n<p>With a decade of momentum behind it,\u00a0<em>Sunshine Month 2025<\/em>\u00a0carries an urgent message:<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>many health crises faced today are simply due to sunshine deficiency\u2014sensible sunshine exposure is the solution to the problem, and it is easy, safe, and it\u2019s time to act now<\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>Why Sunshine Matters More Than Ever<\/h3>\n<p>Both physical and mental health have declined over the last several decades, meanwhile, fear of the sun and skin cancer has pushed many individuals indoors or into habits that routinely block their body\u2019s natural reactions to sunlight. Far beyond its role in producing vitamin D, sunlight exposure triggers a cascade of vital biochemical reactions in the body\u2014including the production of nitric oxide, serotonin, melatonin, and beta-endorphins. These molecules are involved in immune regulation, cardiovascular health, mood, sleep, brain function, and protection against chronic disease.<\/p>\n<p>As public fear of skin cancer has led to widespread sun avoidance, research now confirms that this shift has come with unintended health consequences, whereas regular, sensible sunshine exposure has been linked to better health outcomes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A landmark study showed that sun avoiders had mortality rates similar to smokers, with life expectancy shortened by up to 2.1 years compared to those with high sun exposure.<\/li>\n<li>Inadequate sun exposure has been linked to increased risk of 20+ types of cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, depression, cognitive decline, and more.<\/li>\n<li>A 2024 study involving 395,000 individuals found that solarium users and individuals living in areas with more sunlight had lower risks of all cause, cancer, and CVD mortality; more specifically, solarium users had a 15% lower risk of all-cause mortality, a 23% lower risk of cardio-vascular disease mortality, a 14% lower risk of cancer mortality, and a 12% lower risk of non-CVD\/non-cancer mortality as compared to solarium non-users<\/li>\n<li>New studies confirm that exposure to UVB, UVA, Infrared and other wavelengths of sunlight directly support the microbiome, enhance brain health, and even inactivate viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote><p>\u201cSunlight is not optional\u2014it\u2019s essential,\u201d says Jen Aliano, Executive Director at GrassrootsHealth. \u201cWhen people avoid the sun, they\u2019re missing out on an entire symphony of health-promoting effects. Sunshine Month is our way of bringing this science to the public in a safe, empowering way.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h3>Add Years to Your Health \u2013 With Sunshine<\/h3>\n<p>This month\u2019s campaign theme reflects the overwhelming evidence that\u00a0<strong>regular, moderate, non-burning sun exposure can significantly increase lifespan and health span<\/strong>. The campaign also spotlights new developments in sunlight science and public health action:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How to use sunshine exposure safely and effectively for the improvement of health<\/li>\n<li>Hybrid sunbeds (UVA\/UVB + Red Light) as seasonal sunshine alternatives<\/li>\n<li>Skin-type based exposure guidelines, now officially adopted in Australia<\/li>\n<li>The role of sunshine in circadian regulation, mitochondrial function, and inflammation control<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Sunshine Month offers a learning opportunity for everyone, everywhere!<\/em><\/p>\n<p>What\u2019s Happening During This Sunshine Month:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Free eBook Download:<\/strong>\u00a0\u201cAdd Years to Your Health with Sunshine\u201d \u2013 a fully referenced, science-backed guide to safe sun exposure<\/li>\n<li><strong>Educational Videos and Articles:<\/strong>\u00a0Featuring top researchers in photobiology and public health<\/li>\n<li><strong>Personal Sunshine Plans:<\/strong>\u00a0Tools to help individuals determine their best times for sun exposure based on location, skin type, and UV index<\/li>\n<li><strong>Vitamin D Testing Campaign:<\/strong>\u00a0<em>Vitamin D deficiency reflects a sunshine deficiency!<\/em>\u00a0The ideal vitamin D blood level is between 40\u201360 ng\/ml (100\u2013150 nmol\/L). Get two vitamin D test kits plus the Sunshine eBook to test how this summer\u2019s sun supplements your vitamin D level, with the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/daction.grassrootshealth.net\/product\/sunshine-month-bundle-173-value\/\">Sunshine Month Bundle<\/a>\u00a0special.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fundraising Drive:<\/strong>\u00a0Support GrassrootsHealth\u2019s mission to bring research into practice faster than traditional public health pathways allow<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Science<\/h3>\n<p>From Hippocrates and Florence Nightingale to today\u2019s top vitamin D and sunlight researchers, the health benefits of sunshine have been recognized throughout history. Heliotherapy was a mainstream treatment for tuberculosis, rickets, skin conditions, and depression long before antibiotics and modern pharmaceuticals emerged. Today, modern research is validating what ancient medicine knew instinctively: the sun can heal us.<\/p>\n<h3>Join Us and Take Action<\/h3>\n<p>Sunshine Month is a time to rethink our relationship with the sun, and to reclaim it as a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. GrassrootsHealth invites individuals, practitioners, educators, and communities to participate, learn, and share the message.<\/p>\n<p>Visit the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/project\/harness-the-power-of-the-sun\/\">GrassrootsHealth Sunshine Month landing page<\/a>\u00a0to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Download the free eBook<\/li>\n<li>Access webinars, infographics, and planning tools<\/li>\n<li>Order vitamin D test kits and track your progress<\/li>\n<li>Share the message and support the movement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Support the Cause<\/h3>\n<p>GrassrootsHealth is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to shifting public health policy and personal practice through cutting-edge research and public education. Your donation directly fuels this movement.<br \/>\nDonate today:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/donate\">www.grassrootshealth.net\/donate<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>GrassrootsHealth Celebrates a Decade of Empowering the Public with Science-Backed Sunshine Education ENCINITAS, CA (May 1, 2025)\u00a0\u2013 This May, GrassrootsHealth proudly celebrates the\u00a010th Annual Sunshine Month, a campaign that has educated millions over the past decade about the critical role of sensible sunshine exposure in maintaining optimal health, preventing disease, and promoting longevity. With a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":26886,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-26884","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health - Smart Tan News<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"GrassrootsHealth Celebrates a Decade of Empowering the Public with Science-Backed Sunshine Education ENCINITAS, CA (May 1, 2025)\u00a0\u2013 This May, GrassrootsHealth proudly celebrates the\u00a010th Annual Sunshine Month, a campaign that has educated millions over the past decade about the critical role of sensible sunshine exposure in maintaining optimal health, preventing disease, and promoting longevity.  With a decade of momentum behind it,\u00a0Sunshine Month 2025\u00a0carries an urgent message:  many health crises faced today are simply due to sunshine deficiency\u2014sensible sunshine exposure is the solution to the problem, and it is easy, safe, and it\u2019s time to act now. Why Sunshine Matters More Than Ever Both physical and mental health have declined over the last several decades, meanwhile, fear of the sun and skin cancer has pushed many individuals indoors or into habits that routinely block their body\u2019s natural reactions to sunlight. Far beyond its role in producing vitamin D, sunlight exposure triggers a cascade of vital biochemical reactions in the body\u2014including the production of nitric oxide, serotonin, melatonin, and beta-endorphins. These molecules are involved in immune regulation, cardiovascular health, mood, sleep, brain function, and protection against chronic disease.  As public fear of skin cancer has led to widespread sun avoidance, research now confirms that this shift has come with unintended health consequences, whereas regular, sensible sunshine exposure has been linked to better health outcomes:   A landmark study showed that sun avoiders had mortality rates similar to smokers, with life expectancy shortened by up to 2.1 years compared to those with high sun exposure.  Inadequate sun exposure has been linked to increased risk of 20+ types of cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, depression, cognitive decline, and more.  A 2024 study involving 395,000 individuals found that solarium users and individuals living in areas with more sunlight had lower risks of all cause, cancer, and CVD mortality; more specifically, solarium users had a 15% lower risk of all-cause mortality, a 23% lower risk of cardio-vascular disease mortality, a 14% lower risk of cancer mortality, and a 12% lower risk of non-CVD\/non-cancer mortality as compared to solarium non-users  New studies confirm that exposure to UVB, UVA, Infrared and other wavelengths of sunlight directly support the microbiome, enhance brain health, and even inactivate viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2.  \u201cSunlight is not optional\u2014it\u2019s essential,\u201d says Jen Aliano, Executive Director at GrassrootsHealth. \u201cWhen people avoid the sun, they\u2019re missing out on an entire symphony of health-promoting effects. Sunshine Month is our way of bringing this science to the public in a safe, empowering way.\u201d Add Years to Your Health \u2013 With Sunshine This month\u2019s campaign theme reflects the overwhelming evidence that\u00a0regular, moderate, non-burning sun exposure can significantly increase lifespan and health span. The campaign also spotlights new developments in sunlight science and public health action:   How to use sunshine exposure safely and effectively for the improvement of health  Hybrid sunbeds (UVA\/UVB + Red Light) as seasonal sunshine alternatives  Skin-type based exposure guidelines, now officially adopted in Australia  The role of sunshine in circadian regulation, mitochondrial function, and inflammation control  Sunshine Month offers a learning opportunity for everyone, everywhere!  What\u2019s Happening During This Sunshine Month:   Free eBook Download:\u00a0\u201cAdd Years to Your Health with Sunshine\u201d \u2013 a fully referenced, science-backed guide to safe sun exposure  Educational Videos and Articles:\u00a0Featuring top researchers in photobiology and public health  Personal Sunshine Plans:\u00a0Tools to help individuals determine their best times for sun exposure based on location, skin type, and UV index  Vitamin D Testing Campaign:\u00a0Vitamin D deficiency reflects a sunshine deficiency!\u00a0The ideal vitamin D blood level is between 40\u201360 ng\/ml (100\u2013150 nmol\/L). Get two vitamin D test kits plus the Sunshine eBook to test how this summer\u2019s sun supplements your vitamin D level, with the\u00a0Sunshine Month Bundle\u00a0special.  Fundraising Drive:\u00a0Support GrassrootsHealth\u2019s mission to bring research into practice faster than traditional public health pathways allow  From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Science From Hippocrates and Florence Nightingale to today\u2019s top vitamin D and sunlight researchers, the health benefits of sunshine have been recognized throughout history. Heliotherapy was a mainstream treatment for tuberculosis, rickets, skin conditions, and depression long before antibiotics and modern pharmaceuticals emerged. Today, modern research is validating what ancient medicine knew instinctively: the sun can heal us. Join Us and Take Action Sunshine Month is a time to rethink our relationship with the sun, and to reclaim it as a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. GrassrootsHealth invites individuals, practitioners, educators, and communities to participate, learn, and share the message.  Visit the\u00a0GrassrootsHealth Sunshine Month landing page\u00a0to:   Download the free eBook  Access webinars, infographics, and planning tools  Order vitamin D test kits and track your progress  Share the message and support the movement  Support the Cause GrassrootsHealth is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to shifting public health policy and personal practice through cutting-edge research and public education. Your donation directly fuels this movement. Donate today:\u00a0www.grassrootshealth.net\/donate\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health - Smart Tan News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"GrassrootsHealth Celebrates a Decade of Empowering the Public with Science-Backed Sunshine Education ENCINITAS, CA (May 1, 2025)\u00a0\u2013 This May, GrassrootsHealth proudly celebrates the\u00a010th Annual Sunshine Month, a campaign that has educated millions over the past decade about the critical role of sensible sunshine exposure in maintaining optimal health, preventing disease, and promoting longevity.  With a decade of momentum behind it,\u00a0Sunshine Month 2025\u00a0carries an urgent message:  many health crises faced today are simply due to sunshine deficiency\u2014sensible sunshine exposure is the solution to the problem, and it is easy, safe, and it\u2019s time to act now. Why Sunshine Matters More Than Ever Both physical and mental health have declined over the last several decades, meanwhile, fear of the sun and skin cancer has pushed many individuals indoors or into habits that routinely block their body\u2019s natural reactions to sunlight. Far beyond its role in producing vitamin D, sunlight exposure triggers a cascade of vital biochemical reactions in the body\u2014including the production of nitric oxide, serotonin, melatonin, and beta-endorphins. These molecules are involved in immune regulation, cardiovascular health, mood, sleep, brain function, and protection against chronic disease.  As public fear of skin cancer has led to widespread sun avoidance, research now confirms that this shift has come with unintended health consequences, whereas regular, sensible sunshine exposure has been linked to better health outcomes:   A landmark study showed that sun avoiders had mortality rates similar to smokers, with life expectancy shortened by up to 2.1 years compared to those with high sun exposure.  Inadequate sun exposure has been linked to increased risk of 20+ types of cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, depression, cognitive decline, and more.  A 2024 study involving 395,000 individuals found that solarium users and individuals living in areas with more sunlight had lower risks of all cause, cancer, and CVD mortality; more specifically, solarium users had a 15% lower risk of all-cause mortality, a 23% lower risk of cardio-vascular disease mortality, a 14% lower risk of cancer mortality, and a 12% lower risk of non-CVD\/non-cancer mortality as compared to solarium non-users  New studies confirm that exposure to UVB, UVA, Infrared and other wavelengths of sunlight directly support the microbiome, enhance brain health, and even inactivate viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2.  \u201cSunlight is not optional\u2014it\u2019s essential,\u201d says Jen Aliano, Executive Director at GrassrootsHealth. \u201cWhen people avoid the sun, they\u2019re missing out on an entire symphony of health-promoting effects. Sunshine Month is our way of bringing this science to the public in a safe, empowering way.\u201d Add Years to Your Health \u2013 With Sunshine This month\u2019s campaign theme reflects the overwhelming evidence that\u00a0regular, moderate, non-burning sun exposure can significantly increase lifespan and health span. The campaign also spotlights new developments in sunlight science and public health action:   How to use sunshine exposure safely and effectively for the improvement of health  Hybrid sunbeds (UVA\/UVB + Red Light) as seasonal sunshine alternatives  Skin-type based exposure guidelines, now officially adopted in Australia  The role of sunshine in circadian regulation, mitochondrial function, and inflammation control  Sunshine Month offers a learning opportunity for everyone, everywhere!  What\u2019s Happening During This Sunshine Month:   Free eBook Download:\u00a0\u201cAdd Years to Your Health with Sunshine\u201d \u2013 a fully referenced, science-backed guide to safe sun exposure  Educational Videos and Articles:\u00a0Featuring top researchers in photobiology and public health  Personal Sunshine Plans:\u00a0Tools to help individuals determine their best times for sun exposure based on location, skin type, and UV index  Vitamin D Testing Campaign:\u00a0Vitamin D deficiency reflects a sunshine deficiency!\u00a0The ideal vitamin D blood level is between 40\u201360 ng\/ml (100\u2013150 nmol\/L). Get two vitamin D test kits plus the Sunshine eBook to test how this summer\u2019s sun supplements your vitamin D level, with the\u00a0Sunshine Month Bundle\u00a0special.  Fundraising Drive:\u00a0Support GrassrootsHealth\u2019s mission to bring research into practice faster than traditional public health pathways allow  From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Science From Hippocrates and Florence Nightingale to today\u2019s top vitamin D and sunlight researchers, the health benefits of sunshine have been recognized throughout history. Heliotherapy was a mainstream treatment for tuberculosis, rickets, skin conditions, and depression long before antibiotics and modern pharmaceuticals emerged. Today, modern research is validating what ancient medicine knew instinctively: the sun can heal us. Join Us and Take Action Sunshine Month is a time to rethink our relationship with the sun, and to reclaim it as a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. GrassrootsHealth invites individuals, practitioners, educators, and communities to participate, learn, and share the message.  Visit the\u00a0GrassrootsHealth Sunshine Month landing page\u00a0to:   Download the free eBook  Access webinars, infographics, and planning tools  Order vitamin D test kits and track your progress  Share the message and support the movement  Support the Cause GrassrootsHealth is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to shifting public health policy and personal practice through cutting-edge research and public education. Your donation directly fuels this movement. Donate today:\u00a0www.grassrootshealth.net\/donate\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Smart Tan News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-05-01T14:08:14+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1360\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1180\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"smarttannews\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@SmartTan\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@SmartTan\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"smarttannews\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"4 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"smarttannews\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819\"},\"headline\":\"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-05-01T14:08:14+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/\"},\"wordCount\":833,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"News\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/\",\"name\":\"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health - Smart Tan News\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-05-01T14:08:14+00:00\",\"description\":\"GrassrootsHealth Celebrates a Decade of Empowering the Public with Science-Backed Sunshine Education ENCINITAS, CA (May 1, 2025)\u00a0\u2013 This May, GrassrootsHealth proudly celebrates the\u00a010th Annual Sunshine Month, a campaign that has educated millions over the past decade about the critical role of sensible sunshine exposure in maintaining optimal health, preventing disease, and promoting longevity. With a decade of momentum behind it,\u00a0Sunshine Month 2025\u00a0carries an urgent message: many health crises faced today are simply due to sunshine deficiency\u2014sensible sunshine exposure is the solution to the problem, and it is easy, safe, and it\u2019s time to act now. Why Sunshine Matters More Than Ever Both physical and mental health have declined over the last several decades, meanwhile, fear of the sun and skin cancer has pushed many individuals indoors or into habits that routinely block their body\u2019s natural reactions to sunlight. Far beyond its role in producing vitamin D, sunlight exposure triggers a cascade of vital biochemical reactions in the body\u2014including the production of nitric oxide, serotonin, melatonin, and beta-endorphins. These molecules are involved in immune regulation, cardiovascular health, mood, sleep, brain function, and protection against chronic disease. As public fear of skin cancer has led to widespread sun avoidance, research now confirms that this shift has come with unintended health consequences, whereas regular, sensible sunshine exposure has been linked to better health outcomes: A landmark study showed that sun avoiders had mortality rates similar to smokers, with life expectancy shortened by up to 2.1 years compared to those with high sun exposure. Inadequate sun exposure has been linked to increased risk of 20+ types of cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, depression, cognitive decline, and more. A 2024 study involving 395,000 individuals found that solarium users and individuals living in areas with more sunlight had lower risks of all cause, cancer, and CVD mortality; more specifically, solarium users had a 15% lower risk of all-cause mortality, a 23% lower risk of cardio-vascular disease mortality, a 14% lower risk of cancer mortality, and a 12% lower risk of non-CVD\/non-cancer mortality as compared to solarium non-users New studies confirm that exposure to UVB, UVA, Infrared and other wavelengths of sunlight directly support the microbiome, enhance brain health, and even inactivate viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2. \u201cSunlight is not optional\u2014it\u2019s essential,\u201d says Jen Aliano, Executive Director at GrassrootsHealth. \u201cWhen people avoid the sun, they\u2019re missing out on an entire symphony of health-promoting effects. Sunshine Month is our way of bringing this science to the public in a safe, empowering way.\u201d Add Years to Your Health \u2013 With Sunshine This month\u2019s campaign theme reflects the overwhelming evidence that\u00a0regular, moderate, non-burning sun exposure can significantly increase lifespan and health span. The campaign also spotlights new developments in sunlight science and public health action: How to use sunshine exposure safely and effectively for the improvement of health Hybrid sunbeds (UVA\/UVB + Red Light) as seasonal sunshine alternatives Skin-type based exposure guidelines, now officially adopted in Australia The role of sunshine in circadian regulation, mitochondrial function, and inflammation control Sunshine Month offers a learning opportunity for everyone, everywhere! What\u2019s Happening During This Sunshine Month: Free eBook Download:\u00a0\u201cAdd Years to Your Health with Sunshine\u201d \u2013 a fully referenced, science-backed guide to safe sun exposure Educational Videos and Articles:\u00a0Featuring top researchers in photobiology and public health Personal Sunshine Plans:\u00a0Tools to help individuals determine their best times for sun exposure based on location, skin type, and UV index Vitamin D Testing Campaign:\u00a0Vitamin D deficiency reflects a sunshine deficiency!\u00a0The ideal vitamin D blood level is between 40\u201360 ng\/ml (100\u2013150 nmol\/L). Get two vitamin D test kits plus the Sunshine eBook to test how this summer\u2019s sun supplements your vitamin D level, with the\u00a0Sunshine Month Bundle\u00a0special. Fundraising Drive:\u00a0Support GrassrootsHealth\u2019s mission to bring research into practice faster than traditional public health pathways allow From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Science From Hippocrates and Florence Nightingale to today\u2019s top vitamin D and sunlight researchers, the health benefits of sunshine have been recognized throughout history. Heliotherapy was a mainstream treatment for tuberculosis, rickets, skin conditions, and depression long before antibiotics and modern pharmaceuticals emerged. Today, modern research is validating what ancient medicine knew instinctively: the sun can heal us. Join Us and Take Action Sunshine Month is a time to rethink our relationship with the sun, and to reclaim it as a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. GrassrootsHealth invites individuals, practitioners, educators, and communities to participate, learn, and share the message. Visit the\u00a0GrassrootsHealth Sunshine Month landing page\u00a0to: Download the free eBook Access webinars, infographics, and planning tools Order vitamin D test kits and track your progress Share the message and support the movement Support the Cause GrassrootsHealth is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to shifting public health policy and personal practice through cutting-edge research and public education. Your donation directly fuels this movement. Donate today:\u00a0www.grassrootshealth.net\/donate\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg\",\"width\":1360,\"height\":1180,\"caption\":\"Hands, high five and closeup group of people outdoor for solidarity, trust and goal collaboration. People, commitment and friends with hand in support of success, celebration and partnership or unity\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/\",\"name\":\"Smart Tan News\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Smart Tan\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png\",\"width\":500,\"height\":164,\"caption\":\"Smart Tan\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan\",\"https:\/\/x.com\/SmartTan\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819\",\"name\":\"smarttannews\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"smarttannews\"},\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/author\/smarttannews\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health - Smart Tan News","description":"GrassrootsHealth Celebrates a Decade of Empowering the Public with Science-Backed Sunshine Education ENCINITAS, CA (May 1, 2025)\u00a0\u2013 This May, GrassrootsHealth proudly celebrates the\u00a010th Annual Sunshine Month, a campaign that has educated millions over the past decade about the critical role of sensible sunshine exposure in maintaining optimal health, preventing disease, and promoting longevity.  With a decade of momentum behind it,\u00a0Sunshine Month 2025\u00a0carries an urgent message:  many health crises faced today are simply due to sunshine deficiency\u2014sensible sunshine exposure is the solution to the problem, and it is easy, safe, and it\u2019s time to act now. Why Sunshine Matters More Than Ever Both physical and mental health have declined over the last several decades, meanwhile, fear of the sun and skin cancer has pushed many individuals indoors or into habits that routinely block their body\u2019s natural reactions to sunlight. Far beyond its role in producing vitamin D, sunlight exposure triggers a cascade of vital biochemical reactions in the body\u2014including the production of nitric oxide, serotonin, melatonin, and beta-endorphins. These molecules are involved in immune regulation, cardiovascular health, mood, sleep, brain function, and protection against chronic disease.  As public fear of skin cancer has led to widespread sun avoidance, research now confirms that this shift has come with unintended health consequences, whereas regular, sensible sunshine exposure has been linked to better health outcomes:   A landmark study showed that sun avoiders had mortality rates similar to smokers, with life expectancy shortened by up to 2.1 years compared to those with high sun exposure.  Inadequate sun exposure has been linked to increased risk of 20+ types of cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, depression, cognitive decline, and more.  A 2024 study involving 395,000 individuals found that solarium users and individuals living in areas with more sunlight had lower risks of all cause, cancer, and CVD mortality; more specifically, solarium users had a 15% lower risk of all-cause mortality, a 23% lower risk of cardio-vascular disease mortality, a 14% lower risk of cancer mortality, and a 12% lower risk of non-CVD\/non-cancer mortality as compared to solarium non-users  New studies confirm that exposure to UVB, UVA, Infrared and other wavelengths of sunlight directly support the microbiome, enhance brain health, and even inactivate viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2.  \u201cSunlight is not optional\u2014it\u2019s essential,\u201d says Jen Aliano, Executive Director at GrassrootsHealth. \u201cWhen people avoid the sun, they\u2019re missing out on an entire symphony of health-promoting effects. Sunshine Month is our way of bringing this science to the public in a safe, empowering way.\u201d Add Years to Your Health \u2013 With Sunshine This month\u2019s campaign theme reflects the overwhelming evidence that\u00a0regular, moderate, non-burning sun exposure can significantly increase lifespan and health span. The campaign also spotlights new developments in sunlight science and public health action:   How to use sunshine exposure safely and effectively for the improvement of health  Hybrid sunbeds (UVA\/UVB + Red Light) as seasonal sunshine alternatives  Skin-type based exposure guidelines, now officially adopted in Australia  The role of sunshine in circadian regulation, mitochondrial function, and inflammation control  Sunshine Month offers a learning opportunity for everyone, everywhere!  What\u2019s Happening During This Sunshine Month:   Free eBook Download:\u00a0\u201cAdd Years to Your Health with Sunshine\u201d \u2013 a fully referenced, science-backed guide to safe sun exposure  Educational Videos and Articles:\u00a0Featuring top researchers in photobiology and public health  Personal Sunshine Plans:\u00a0Tools to help individuals determine their best times for sun exposure based on location, skin type, and UV index  Vitamin D Testing Campaign:\u00a0Vitamin D deficiency reflects a sunshine deficiency!\u00a0The ideal vitamin D blood level is between 40\u201360 ng\/ml (100\u2013150 nmol\/L). Get two vitamin D test kits plus the Sunshine eBook to test how this summer\u2019s sun supplements your vitamin D level, with the\u00a0Sunshine Month Bundle\u00a0special.  Fundraising Drive:\u00a0Support GrassrootsHealth\u2019s mission to bring research into practice faster than traditional public health pathways allow  From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Science From Hippocrates and Florence Nightingale to today\u2019s top vitamin D and sunlight researchers, the health benefits of sunshine have been recognized throughout history. Heliotherapy was a mainstream treatment for tuberculosis, rickets, skin conditions, and depression long before antibiotics and modern pharmaceuticals emerged. Today, modern research is validating what ancient medicine knew instinctively: the sun can heal us. Join Us and Take Action Sunshine Month is a time to rethink our relationship with the sun, and to reclaim it as a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. GrassrootsHealth invites individuals, practitioners, educators, and communities to participate, learn, and share the message.  Visit the\u00a0GrassrootsHealth Sunshine Month landing page\u00a0to:   Download the free eBook  Access webinars, infographics, and planning tools  Order vitamin D test kits and track your progress  Share the message and support the movement  Support the Cause GrassrootsHealth is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to shifting public health policy and personal practice through cutting-edge research and public education. Your donation directly fuels this movement. Donate today:\u00a0www.grassrootshealth.net\/donate","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health - Smart Tan News","og_description":"GrassrootsHealth Celebrates a Decade of Empowering the Public with Science-Backed Sunshine Education ENCINITAS, CA (May 1, 2025)\u00a0\u2013 This May, GrassrootsHealth proudly celebrates the\u00a010th Annual Sunshine Month, a campaign that has educated millions over the past decade about the critical role of sensible sunshine exposure in maintaining optimal health, preventing disease, and promoting longevity.  With a decade of momentum behind it,\u00a0Sunshine Month 2025\u00a0carries an urgent message:  many health crises faced today are simply due to sunshine deficiency\u2014sensible sunshine exposure is the solution to the problem, and it is easy, safe, and it\u2019s time to act now. Why Sunshine Matters More Than Ever Both physical and mental health have declined over the last several decades, meanwhile, fear of the sun and skin cancer has pushed many individuals indoors or into habits that routinely block their body\u2019s natural reactions to sunlight. Far beyond its role in producing vitamin D, sunlight exposure triggers a cascade of vital biochemical reactions in the body\u2014including the production of nitric oxide, serotonin, melatonin, and beta-endorphins. These molecules are involved in immune regulation, cardiovascular health, mood, sleep, brain function, and protection against chronic disease.  As public fear of skin cancer has led to widespread sun avoidance, research now confirms that this shift has come with unintended health consequences, whereas regular, sensible sunshine exposure has been linked to better health outcomes:   A landmark study showed that sun avoiders had mortality rates similar to smokers, with life expectancy shortened by up to 2.1 years compared to those with high sun exposure.  Inadequate sun exposure has been linked to increased risk of 20+ types of cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, depression, cognitive decline, and more.  A 2024 study involving 395,000 individuals found that solarium users and individuals living in areas with more sunlight had lower risks of all cause, cancer, and CVD mortality; more specifically, solarium users had a 15% lower risk of all-cause mortality, a 23% lower risk of cardio-vascular disease mortality, a 14% lower risk of cancer mortality, and a 12% lower risk of non-CVD\/non-cancer mortality as compared to solarium non-users  New studies confirm that exposure to UVB, UVA, Infrared and other wavelengths of sunlight directly support the microbiome, enhance brain health, and even inactivate viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2.  \u201cSunlight is not optional\u2014it\u2019s essential,\u201d says Jen Aliano, Executive Director at GrassrootsHealth. \u201cWhen people avoid the sun, they\u2019re missing out on an entire symphony of health-promoting effects. Sunshine Month is our way of bringing this science to the public in a safe, empowering way.\u201d Add Years to Your Health \u2013 With Sunshine This month\u2019s campaign theme reflects the overwhelming evidence that\u00a0regular, moderate, non-burning sun exposure can significantly increase lifespan and health span. The campaign also spotlights new developments in sunlight science and public health action:   How to use sunshine exposure safely and effectively for the improvement of health  Hybrid sunbeds (UVA\/UVB + Red Light) as seasonal sunshine alternatives  Skin-type based exposure guidelines, now officially adopted in Australia  The role of sunshine in circadian regulation, mitochondrial function, and inflammation control  Sunshine Month offers a learning opportunity for everyone, everywhere!  What\u2019s Happening During This Sunshine Month:   Free eBook Download:\u00a0\u201cAdd Years to Your Health with Sunshine\u201d \u2013 a fully referenced, science-backed guide to safe sun exposure  Educational Videos and Articles:\u00a0Featuring top researchers in photobiology and public health  Personal Sunshine Plans:\u00a0Tools to help individuals determine their best times for sun exposure based on location, skin type, and UV index  Vitamin D Testing Campaign:\u00a0Vitamin D deficiency reflects a sunshine deficiency!\u00a0The ideal vitamin D blood level is between 40\u201360 ng\/ml (100\u2013150 nmol\/L). Get two vitamin D test kits plus the Sunshine eBook to test how this summer\u2019s sun supplements your vitamin D level, with the\u00a0Sunshine Month Bundle\u00a0special.  Fundraising Drive:\u00a0Support GrassrootsHealth\u2019s mission to bring research into practice faster than traditional public health pathways allow  From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Science From Hippocrates and Florence Nightingale to today\u2019s top vitamin D and sunlight researchers, the health benefits of sunshine have been recognized throughout history. Heliotherapy was a mainstream treatment for tuberculosis, rickets, skin conditions, and depression long before antibiotics and modern pharmaceuticals emerged. Today, modern research is validating what ancient medicine knew instinctively: the sun can heal us. Join Us and Take Action Sunshine Month is a time to rethink our relationship with the sun, and to reclaim it as a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. GrassrootsHealth invites individuals, practitioners, educators, and communities to participate, learn, and share the message.  Visit the\u00a0GrassrootsHealth Sunshine Month landing page\u00a0to:   Download the free eBook  Access webinars, infographics, and planning tools  Order vitamin D test kits and track your progress  Share the message and support the movement  Support the Cause GrassrootsHealth is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to shifting public health policy and personal practice through cutting-edge research and public education. Your donation directly fuels this movement. Donate today:\u00a0www.grassrootshealth.net\/donate","og_url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/","og_site_name":"Smart Tan News","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan","article_published_time":"2025-05-01T14:08:14+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1360,"height":1180,"url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"smarttannews","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@SmartTan","twitter_site":"@SmartTan","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"smarttannews","Est. reading time":"4 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/"},"author":{"name":"smarttannews","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819"},"headline":"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health","datePublished":"2025-05-01T14:08:14+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/"},"wordCount":833,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg","articleSection":["News"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/","url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/","name":"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health - Smart Tan News","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg","datePublished":"2025-05-01T14:08:14+00:00","description":"GrassrootsHealth Celebrates a Decade of Empowering the Public with Science-Backed Sunshine Education ENCINITAS, CA (May 1, 2025)\u00a0\u2013 This May, GrassrootsHealth proudly celebrates the\u00a010th Annual Sunshine Month, a campaign that has educated millions over the past decade about the critical role of sensible sunshine exposure in maintaining optimal health, preventing disease, and promoting longevity. With a decade of momentum behind it,\u00a0Sunshine Month 2025\u00a0carries an urgent message: many health crises faced today are simply due to sunshine deficiency\u2014sensible sunshine exposure is the solution to the problem, and it is easy, safe, and it\u2019s time to act now. Why Sunshine Matters More Than Ever Both physical and mental health have declined over the last several decades, meanwhile, fear of the sun and skin cancer has pushed many individuals indoors or into habits that routinely block their body\u2019s natural reactions to sunlight. Far beyond its role in producing vitamin D, sunlight exposure triggers a cascade of vital biochemical reactions in the body\u2014including the production of nitric oxide, serotonin, melatonin, and beta-endorphins. These molecules are involved in immune regulation, cardiovascular health, mood, sleep, brain function, and protection against chronic disease. As public fear of skin cancer has led to widespread sun avoidance, research now confirms that this shift has come with unintended health consequences, whereas regular, sensible sunshine exposure has been linked to better health outcomes: A landmark study showed that sun avoiders had mortality rates similar to smokers, with life expectancy shortened by up to 2.1 years compared to those with high sun exposure. Inadequate sun exposure has been linked to increased risk of 20+ types of cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, depression, cognitive decline, and more. A 2024 study involving 395,000 individuals found that solarium users and individuals living in areas with more sunlight had lower risks of all cause, cancer, and CVD mortality; more specifically, solarium users had a 15% lower risk of all-cause mortality, a 23% lower risk of cardio-vascular disease mortality, a 14% lower risk of cancer mortality, and a 12% lower risk of non-CVD\/non-cancer mortality as compared to solarium non-users New studies confirm that exposure to UVB, UVA, Infrared and other wavelengths of sunlight directly support the microbiome, enhance brain health, and even inactivate viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2. \u201cSunlight is not optional\u2014it\u2019s essential,\u201d says Jen Aliano, Executive Director at GrassrootsHealth. \u201cWhen people avoid the sun, they\u2019re missing out on an entire symphony of health-promoting effects. Sunshine Month is our way of bringing this science to the public in a safe, empowering way.\u201d Add Years to Your Health \u2013 With Sunshine This month\u2019s campaign theme reflects the overwhelming evidence that\u00a0regular, moderate, non-burning sun exposure can significantly increase lifespan and health span. The campaign also spotlights new developments in sunlight science and public health action: How to use sunshine exposure safely and effectively for the improvement of health Hybrid sunbeds (UVA\/UVB + Red Light) as seasonal sunshine alternatives Skin-type based exposure guidelines, now officially adopted in Australia The role of sunshine in circadian regulation, mitochondrial function, and inflammation control Sunshine Month offers a learning opportunity for everyone, everywhere! What\u2019s Happening During This Sunshine Month: Free eBook Download:\u00a0\u201cAdd Years to Your Health with Sunshine\u201d \u2013 a fully referenced, science-backed guide to safe sun exposure Educational Videos and Articles:\u00a0Featuring top researchers in photobiology and public health Personal Sunshine Plans:\u00a0Tools to help individuals determine their best times for sun exposure based on location, skin type, and UV index Vitamin D Testing Campaign:\u00a0Vitamin D deficiency reflects a sunshine deficiency!\u00a0The ideal vitamin D blood level is between 40\u201360 ng\/ml (100\u2013150 nmol\/L). Get two vitamin D test kits plus the Sunshine eBook to test how this summer\u2019s sun supplements your vitamin D level, with the\u00a0Sunshine Month Bundle\u00a0special. Fundraising Drive:\u00a0Support GrassrootsHealth\u2019s mission to bring research into practice faster than traditional public health pathways allow From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Science From Hippocrates and Florence Nightingale to today\u2019s top vitamin D and sunlight researchers, the health benefits of sunshine have been recognized throughout history. Heliotherapy was a mainstream treatment for tuberculosis, rickets, skin conditions, and depression long before antibiotics and modern pharmaceuticals emerged. Today, modern research is validating what ancient medicine knew instinctively: the sun can heal us. Join Us and Take Action Sunshine Month is a time to rethink our relationship with the sun, and to reclaim it as a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. GrassrootsHealth invites individuals, practitioners, educators, and communities to participate, learn, and share the message. Visit the\u00a0GrassrootsHealth Sunshine Month landing page\u00a0to: Download the free eBook Access webinars, infographics, and planning tools Order vitamin D test kits and track your progress Share the message and support the movement Support the Cause GrassrootsHealth is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to shifting public health policy and personal practice through cutting-edge research and public education. Your donation directly fuels this movement. Donate today:\u00a0www.grassrootshealth.net\/donate","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hands-sun-5-1-25.jpg","width":1360,"height":1180,"caption":"Hands, high five and closeup group of people outdoor for solidarity, trust and goal collaboration. People, commitment and friends with hand in support of success, celebration and partnership or unity"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/10th-annual-sunshine-month-shines-light-on-the-vital-role-of-sunshine-exposure-for-longevity-and-health\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"10th Annual Sunshine Month Shines Light on the Vital Role of Sunshine Exposure for Longevity and Health"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website","url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/","name":"Smart Tan News","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization","name":"Smart Tan","url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png","width":500,"height":164,"caption":"Smart Tan"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan","https:\/\/x.com\/SmartTan"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819","name":"smarttannews","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"smarttannews"},"url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/author\/smarttannews\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26884","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=26884"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26884\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":26887,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26884\/revisions\/26887"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/26886"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=26884"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=26884"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=26884"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}