UVB Protection Causing DeficiencyIntroduction
Sunscreen is used to prevent burning of the skin caused by the sun as it absorbs or
reflects some of the rays in the UVB part of the light spectrum. There are many forms of
sunscreen but they all serve the same purpose of protecting our skin. This product is regulated by
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and it has been recommended to prevent skin cancer and
other diseases associated with UVA radiation. According to the American Cancer Society,
“Some of the chemicals in sunscreens that help protect against UVA rays include avobenzone
(Parsol 1789), ecamsule, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide. Only broad spectrum sunscreen
products with an SPF of 15 or higher can state that they help protect against skin cancer and
early skin aging if used as directed with other sun protection measures.” Many will continue
using sunscreen for protective measures although some can be skeptical of the ingredients and
health related issues that it may cause in the future. Does the use of sunscreen cause deficiency in
the intake of Vitamin D levels of an individual?
Research Questions
Vitamin D is necessary to regulate calcium to maintain healthy bones, regulate insulin,
support lung function and cardiovascular system, regulate cell growth which is overall beneficial
to the prevention of cancer. The lack of Vitamin D can result in obesity, hypertension,
depression, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, neurodegerative diseases, and more. If we are
encouraged to use this protection, are we potentially risking the possibility of having a
deficiency? The use of sunscreen is has many benefits and potential risks as well so we will
consider the following research questions.
1. Does sunscreen cause a deficiency in Vitamin D?
2. Is the use of sunscreen more beneficial than it is harmful?
3. Why does the protection cause deficiencies in a vitamin that impacts our health
significantly?
4. Do we need to be concerned about the chemicals and ingredients in sunscreen?
Background and Significance
The use of sunscreen prevents the possibility of enduring a sunburn for a duration of time
after sun exposure through the lack of absorption of ultraviolet rays. The product will be applied
to the skin
The Food and Drug Administration proposes to regulate sunscreen to ensure high quality, safety,
and effectiveness of the product in 1978. During this time, the
“How Do I Protect Myself from UV Rays?” American Cancer Society,
www.cancer.org/cancer/skin-cancer/prevention-and-early-detection/uv-protection.html.