Its widely known that Black people are more likely to suffer from vitamin D deficiency as the melanin in our skin protects from UVB rays, therefore also blocking the natural consumption of vitamin D from the sun. A new 2020 study has now found links between vitamin D deficiency and breast cancer.
Dr Uzma Shamsi, Assistant Professor at the University of Adelaide, Australia and the Aga Khan University in Pakistan lead the research after she observed the increase of vitamin D deficiency and breast cancer in Pakistani women. The results from the study showed that women with vitamin D deficiency were at higher risk of breast cancer as compared to women with adequate vitamin D levels.
Vitamin D is produced naturally when the skin is exposed to sunlight by the sun; it’s unlike any other vitamin because every cell in the human body has a receptor for it. According to Public Health England, as much as 90% of the multi-ethnic population are suffering from a Vitamin D deficiency and should consider taking a supplement all year round, especially those of us living in colder climates.
Vitamin D deficiency is also linked with depression, extreme tiredness, slow healing of wounds, which can onset symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Sources of vitamin D include red meat, egg yolk, oily fish and liver however it is difficult to get the required amount of vitamin D from food alone. Vitamin D supplements are widely available at supermarkets and chemists, however, we recommend you visit your doctor for advice on personal intake.
