Children and adolescents who had high sun exposure had a decreased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) later in life. Researchers concluded that insufficient exposure to ultraviolet radiation or vitamin D might therefore increase the risk of MS. Other studies have had similar results, indicating that ultraviolet radiation may be beneficial against multiple sclerosis.
Sun exposure during childhood and early adolescence seemed to be most effective against MS, researchers found. Further, higher sun exposure during winter months, when minimum ultraviolet radiation and vitamin D exposures occur, was particularly important in reducing the risk of MS.
British Medical Journal August 9, 2003;327:316 (Full Text Article)
It is widely known that the risk of MS increases the farther away one goes from the equator. Scientists believe the mechanism that affects MS is secondary to decreased ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet radiation increases vitamin D levels and may have a protective role in T helper cell type 1 mediated autoimmune disease.
To me the take-home message is loud and clear. Sun exposure is not the evil it is made out to be. It is clearly important to get regular sun exposure in order to have optimum health and to avoid these types of autoimmune diseases. So parents, let your kids out in the sun, just monitor them carefully to make sure they don't get burned.
Additionally, sunscreen is not likely to be a good idea. Sunscreen may actually cause cancer and will actually block the beneficial UV rays that produce vitamin D and protect against autoimmune disease.
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