China 
Africa 
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Body Systems: The Basics
Published in Karen L. LaBat, Karen S. Ryan, Human Body, 2019
Skin cells manufacture vitamin D from chemicals brought to the skin by the bloodstream. UVB, one of the ultraviolet ray types found in sunlight, triggers this process. Vitamin D is important for the body, helping build strong bones and teeth. Sun protective measures block this function. Fortunately, the skin can produce vitamin D with short daily periods of sun exposure. In regions of the world with less regular daily sunshine people are often vitamin D deficient. A simple blood test can measure vitamin D levels in the body. People who require extensive sun protection, or who don’t get enough sun exposure, may need to take a vitamin D supplement.
Direct Ultraviolet Effects on Biological Systems
Published in Thomas M. Nordlund, Peter M. Hoffmann, Quantitative Understanding of Biosystems, 2019
Thomas M. Nordlund, Peter M. Hoffmann
We close this chapter with one story of the beneficial effects of UV radiation on humans. While the psychological benefits of sun exposure are clear, it turns out that the active form of vitamin D is synthesized in the skin, with the requirement of UV-B radiation. Optimal synthesis occurs between 295 and 300 nm. This narrow UV band is sometimes referred to as D-UV. It further turns out that taking vitamin D supplements does not help much because little of the vitamin-pill vitamin D turns into the biologically active form of vitamin D.
The effects of sport, setting, and demographics on sunscreen use and education in young athletes
Published in Research in Sports Medicine, 2023
Tracy Zaslow, Akash R. Patel, Rachel Coel, Mia J. Katzel, Tishya A.L. Wren
In conclusion, our study finds youth athletes differ in sunscreen use by sport and setting, highlighting the need for continued photoprotective education. Dermatologists suggest that public health policy should follow evidence-based research surrounding sun protection measures needed in youth (Townsend et al., 2011). While research exists on the danger of excessive UVR exposure, implementing changes among young populations is important yet often avoided due to attitudes, education, or perceived resource requirements (De Castro-Maqueda et al., 2021; Geller et al., 2002; Haluza et al., 2016; Stanton et al., 2004; Townsend et al., 2011). The current public health recommendations for safe sun exposure behaviours include regular use of sunscreens with at least SPF of 15, minimizing sunburns, using clothing and other physical barriers to limit UVR exposure, and avoiding intentional sun exposure (Geller et al., 2002). Our study has found overexposure and limited photoprotective measures across sport and setting at three different geographic locations. Data from this study can serve as a building block for future research.