Tanning Actually Protects You Against Skin Cancer

In a study in the March 9 issue of the journal Cell, researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Harvard Medical School) report that the protein, p53, is not only linked to skin tanning, but also may play a role in people's seemingly universal desire to be in the sun — an activity that, by promoting tanning, can reduce one's risk of melanoma.

Source: "Guardian of the genome"

Video from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: "Dr. David E. Fisher discussing p53"

It is being reported that scientists have identified a protein that not only prevents cancer, but also prevents sun skin damage. The protein is known as P53 and works by keeping tumors at bay, but has also been found to activate the tanning mechanism that then darkens a person's skin thus protecting it from sunburn and melanoma.

"The number one risk factor for melanoma is an inability to tan. People who tan easily or have dark pigmentation are far less likely to develop the disease." David Fisher, the study's lead author and director of the melanoma program at Dana-Farber .

Source: "Cancer Blocking Protein Protects Skin Also"

A gene known to prevent cancer also protects against sun damage by prompting the skin to tan when exposed to the sun's ultraviolet light

Source: "Anticancer gene tied to tans"

According to Dr. Oz from the Oprah show, "Get 10 minutes of direct sun exposure to your body or take a vitamin D supplement once a day."

For more info: http://www2.oprah.com/health/oz/slide/20080205/oz_20080205_350_117.jhtml?promocode=HP25

Find out more about the Positive Effects of Sunlight