Some studies have suggested that the use of sunscreens to prevent skin cancer may put the population at risk of vitamin D deficiency. We followed 24 sunscreen users and 19 controls over 2 years, including two summers, two winters and a basal period (winter). Vitamin D, parathormone and bone biological markers were evaluated each season. Mean levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D rose in summer, with the increments being significantly higher for the second year in the control group. Levels decreased in winter in both groups, and were significantly lower in sunscreen users. We did not observe any significant change in parathormone, tartrate resistant phosphatase, total alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, urine hydroxyproline or urine calcium. Clinically prescribed sunscreen creams (sun protection factor 15) caused a minor decrease in 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, which did not induce secondary hyperparathyroidism or an increment in bone biological markers.
Background: It has been suggested that the use of sunscreens to prevent skin cancer may put the population at risk of vitamin D deficiency, which in turn may lead to secondary hyperparathyroidism, loss of cortical bone and, ultimately, osteoporotic fractures. Objective: To investigate whether sunscreen SPF15 may lead to loss of bone mass. Methods: We followed 10 sunscreen users and 18 controls over 2 years, including two summers, two winters and a basal period (winter). Bone mass was evaluated each season with dual x-ray absorptiometry. Results: During follow-up, mild fluctuations in bone mass could be seen at Ward’s site in both groups, without a definitive pattern. At the final visit, no significant loss of bone mass was observed in sunscreen users or in the control group. We did not observe any significant differences between groups throughout the study. Conclusion: Although the study samples in this work are small, and a slight variation in bone mass may not be detected, in a clinical setting, sunscreen SPF15 protection does not seem to increase the risk of osteoporosis.
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