Something You Should Know BONUS: You Might Also Like: "On Point"
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Oct 14, 2025 Prue Hart, an immunologist at the University of Western Australia, and Richard Weller, a medical dermatology professor at the University of Edinburgh, dive into the surprising health benefits of sunlight. They discuss how ultraviolet radiation could potentially treat autoimmune diseases and even lower cardiovascular risks. The duo explores the impact of sunlight on mood, immune signaling, and geographic health disparities. They also touch on the balance between sun exposure benefits and the risks of skin cancer, emphasizing the importance of safe sun practices.
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Sunlight Affects Whole-Body Biology
- Sunlight triggers complex whole-body biological processes beyond the skin.
- These processes can alter immunity, nerves, organs, blood pressure, and mood.
UVB Dampens Inflammation Systemically
- UVB specifically dampens inflammation and influences many physiological systems.
- Sunlight exposure also affects stress, bone health, metabolism, and children's eye development.
Skin As A Systemic Signaling Organ
- UV photons change molecules in the skin and send systemic signals through immune and endocrine pathways.
- The skin acts as a communication hub that modulates distant organs and immune responses.