Research Links Sunlight, Vitamin D, and Breast Cancer Prevention

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins, GrassrootsHealth and the Helen Knoll Foundation are drawing attention to research exploring the role of sunlight and vitamin D in breast cancer risk. The organizations are focusing this month and on World Vitamin D Day on scientific evidence linking higher vitamin D blood levels to a lower risk of breast cancer.

Findings from over 200 studies, including research from the University of California San Diego, suggest that higher vitamin D levels in the blood are associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer. The research has also examined vitamin D levels in relation to premenopausal breast cancer. Both non-profit organizations aim to increase public awareness of this work and encourage discussion.

The research traces back to the 1980s when scientists noted lower rates of colon cancer in regions with less sunlight. Their hypothesis was that reduced exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) light, which initiates the body's vitamin D production, might explain the difference. Later studies extended this observation to breast cancer, finding an association between lower UVB levels and higher breast cancer incidence.

On World Vitamin D Day, GrassrootsHealth will present the inaugural Baggerly-Garland Awards to three scientists who have advanced the understanding of vitamin D, UVB exposure, and cancer risk. The honorees are William B. Grant, Joan Lappe, and Edward Gorham. The award is named after GrassrootsHealth founder Carole Baggerly and the Garland researchers.

The Helen Knoll Foundation will also present a Vitamin D Visionary Award to Carole Baggerly for her work in bringing vitamin D research to public attention and translating scientific findings into public health actions. The organizations encourage individuals to test their vitamin D levels and consider appropriate supplementation to achieve target blood levels of 40-60 ng/mL.