Sun exposure linked to lower mortality risk, author argues
6 reported
A new book argues that sunlight exposure may be more beneficial than commonly believed, based on research reviewed by author Rowan Jacobsen. Jacobsen, a former Knight Science Journalism Fellow at MIT, began studying the subject nine years ago and has summarized findings in his book "In Defense of Sunlight." He states that those who spend more time in the sun tend to be healthier, citing a 2024 study of more than 88,000 UK Biobank volunteers that found those receiving the most daylight were 34% less likely to die from any cause. After accounting for exercise and diet, the benefit remained at 17%. Jacobsen acknowledges that sun exposure increases skin cancer risk but notes that only about 3,500 people die of skin cancer in the UK each year, representing 1% of the 350,000 deaths from cancer and cardiovascular disease. He attributes the lack of public awareness about these benefits to "anchoring bias," where institutions cling to earlier advice to avoid the sun. The article notes that recommendations vary by skin type, location, and season, with fair-skinned individuals needing more caution.
What’s reported
Rowan Jacobsen began researching sunlight nine years ago and wrote "In Defense of Sunlight."
A 2024 study of over 88,000 UK Biobank volunteers found those with most daylight exposure were 34% less likely to die from any cause; after accounting for exercise and diet, the benefit was 17%.
About 3,500 people die of skin cancer in the UK each year, which is 1% of the 350,000 deaths from cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Sunlight produces dozens of beneficial molecules that lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and release endorphins.
Jacobsen attributes the lack of public awareness to "anchoring bias," where institutions cling to initial information.
Original sun-avoidance recommendations came from Australia, a sunny place with a fair-skinned population; the UK has less intense sun.
Misconceptions
The article addresses the misconception that sun exposure is primarily harmful, stating that those who spend more time in the sun tend to be healthier.
Key figures
Rowan Jacobsen, author and former Knight Science Journalism Fellow at MIT and media fellow at the Nova Institute for Health in Baltimore.
Sources: The Guardian
