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REVIEW PAPER
Do we know how much we can help ourselves by using preventive exposure to solar radiation?
1
Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Clinic, Institute of Surgery, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
2
Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Clinic, Institute of Surgery, Lodz, Poland
Submission date: 2025-03-20
Final revision date: 2025-09-03
Acceptance date: 2025-09-03
Online publication date: 2026-05-20
Publication date: 2026-05-20
Corresponding author
Marta Fijałkowska
Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Clinic, Institute of Surgery, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland, Kopcińskiego 22, 90-153, Lodz, Poland
Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Clinic, Institute of Surgery, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland, Kopcińskiego 22, 90-153, Lodz, Poland
Pol. Ann. Med. 2026;33:109-115
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Introduction:
The role of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in processes occurring in ecosystem is significant, and the effects of its actions on human health are both positive and negative. UV radiation mainly affects the eyesight and skin. Prolonged exposure of the eyes to ultraviolet radiation, especially without protection can lead to serious diseases. On the other hand, insufficient exposure to UVR may seem as a serious public health issue.
Aim:
The aim of this paper is to present health advantages that comes from preventive dose of solar radiation with an overview of their mechanisms of action.
Material and methods:
This narrative review summarizes 36 peer-reviewed studies on vitamin D, sunlight exposure, and health outcomes, identified in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar from 2002 to 2024 through screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts.
Results and discussion:
Current sun protection guidelines often emphasize avoidance of exposure, which may contribute to vitamin D deficiency and related health problems. UV requirements vary with factors such as skin type, location, and season, underscoring the need for individualized recommendations that balance the risks and benefits of sunlight.
Conclusions:
To reap the maximum benefits, it is important to find a balance between protecting oneself from its harmful effects and ensuring an adequate amount of exposure, which is necessary for vitamin D production and overall well-being.
The role of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in processes occurring in ecosystem is significant, and the effects of its actions on human health are both positive and negative. UV radiation mainly affects the eyesight and skin. Prolonged exposure of the eyes to ultraviolet radiation, especially without protection can lead to serious diseases. On the other hand, insufficient exposure to UVR may seem as a serious public health issue.
Aim:
The aim of this paper is to present health advantages that comes from preventive dose of solar radiation with an overview of their mechanisms of action.
Material and methods:
This narrative review summarizes 36 peer-reviewed studies on vitamin D, sunlight exposure, and health outcomes, identified in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar from 2002 to 2024 through screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts.
Results and discussion:
Current sun protection guidelines often emphasize avoidance of exposure, which may contribute to vitamin D deficiency and related health problems. UV requirements vary with factors such as skin type, location, and season, underscoring the need for individualized recommendations that balance the risks and benefits of sunlight.
Conclusions:
To reap the maximum benefits, it is important to find a balance between protecting oneself from its harmful effects and ensuring an adequate amount of exposure, which is necessary for vitamin D production and overall well-being.
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