Australians not getting enough sunlight

SYDNEY, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Doctors say Australians have become so fearful of skin cancer from exposure to the sun they are not getting sufficient sunlight to provide adequate vitamin D.

Dr. Terry Diamond, an endocrinologist in Sydney, estimates that 20 percent to 30 percent of the population suffers from vitamin D deficiency, The Sydney Morning Herald reports.

Vitamin D is needed for calcium absorption, so those with deficient amounts are at risk for osteoporosis and dental problems, as well as diabetes and cancer.

Diamond said new research suggests the Australian guidelines for vitamin D underestimate the actual need by as much as 40 percent. That could mean the level of deficiencies is as high as 70 percent.

Australian hospitals report the number of broken bones caused by osteoporosis has risen from an average of 177 a day to 262 in six years.