Treating the paradox of an important emerging public health problem
The international perception of bronzed Australians inhabiting a “sunburnt country” is under threat. Most Australians, including children, now sensibly avoid excessive sun exposure to reduce the risk of skin cancer. However, other Australians, particularly those who are older, disabled or institutionalised often do not receive even modest levels of sunlight exposure. This has led to the paradox of vitamin D deficiency emerging as a public health issue in sunny Australia.
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- Departments of Diabetes and Endocrinology and Medicine, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC.
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