Sunlight Exposure Linked to Reduced Asthma Risk in Babies

Exposing babies to sunlight could go a long way in reducing the risk of asthma, according to a new report published in the International Journal of Biometeorology. Researchers from Public Health Centre in Castellon, Spain, observed over 45,000 teenagers from nine different cities in Spain and found that those who came from cities that had colder weather were at a higher risk of suffering from asthma compared to those who came from sunny climate.

The researchers said that the main reason for the greater risk was the lack of sunlight which is the main source of vitamin D. While increased exposure to sunlight may lead to cancer, no sunlight or very little exposure is also harmful since it increases the risk of asthma and tuberculosis.

“Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause cancer, but it’s also dangerous to avoid. There has to be a balance between the pros and cons”, lead researcher Alberto Arnedo-Pena said.


Source-Medindia