In the News

‘The issue is moderation,’ expert says Tom Blackwell, National Post Tired of its products being portrayed as little more than carcinogens for the vain, Canada’s tanning-bed business is going on the attack against critics. In an “aggressive” publicity campaign to start this week, the industry is questioning scientists’ warnings about exposure to ultraviolet rays, and accusing a major dermatology group of modifying its public message in return for money from sunscreen makers.… continue reading

Relaxing in the sun on a warm day may have benefits beyond the pleasure of a few moments peace, but it also carries risks, leaving sun lovers uncertain about how much exposure is too much. “The sun releases UV rays which can cause damage to the DNA of skin cells.… continue reading

ScienceDaily (May 16, 2008) — According to a new study from the University of Minnesota, the earliest event in the development of sun-induced skin cancer may have been identified. The researchers found that the point of entry for skin cancer in response to sun exposure is in receptor molecules, molecular “hooks” on the outer surface of cells that also pull cannabinoid compounds found in marijuana out of the bloodstream.… continue reading

Health Byline: Martin Mittelstaedt Genes, having a first period before the age of 12 and being obese are among the frequently cited risk factors for breast cancer in women. But if the theory that vitamin D plays a role turns out to be true, there may be an unexpected cause for Canadian women: latitude.… continue reading

The Toronto Star,  News Byline: Maggie Fox     Breast cancer patients with lower levels of vitamin D were far more likely to die and far more likely to have their cancer spread than women with normal levels, report Toronto researchers. Women deficient in the “sunshine vitamin” when diagnosed with breast cancer were 94 per cent more likely to have their cancer spread and were 73 per cent more likely to die than women with adequate vitamin D levels, the researchers said.… continue reading