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Research
Vitamin D is crucial for maternal care and offspring social behaviour in ratsThese data highlight that early life levels of vitamin D are an important consideration for maternal behavioural adaptations as well as offspring neuropsychiatry
Research
Predictors of vitamin D-containing supplement use in the Australian population and associations between dose and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrationsThe prevalence of vitamin D-containing supplement use was generally low in the Australian population, particularly for single vitamin D supplements
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Self-Reported Changes in Sun-Protection Behaviors at Different Latitudes in AustraliaThe strongest determinants of self-reported sun-protection behavior changes due to concerns about vitamin D were attitudes and location
News & Events
UV and Vitamin DResearchers at The Kids Research Institute Australia are continuing to hone in on the effects of ultraviolet radiation and vitamin D on the immune system.
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UV Irradiation of Skin Regulates a Murine Model of Multiple Sclerosis.The prevalence of multiple sclerosis follows a latitude gradient, with increased disease at higher latitudes.
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Vitamin D and SunlightIn a sunny country such as Australia, it’s important to identify how to achieve the right amount of sun exposure for good health. We need to be able to harness the benefits of vitamin D and sunlight while remaining protected from the proven dangers of too much UV radiation.
Research
The influence of sunlight exposure and sun protecting behaviours on allergic outcomes in early childhoodThe dramatic rise in allergic disease has occurred in tandem with recent environmental changes and increasing indoor lifestyle culture. While multifactorial, one consistent allergy risk factor has been reduced sunlight exposure. However, vitamin D supplementation studies have been disappointing in preventing allergy, raising possible independent effects of ultraviolet (UV) light exposure.
Research
The Effects of Using the Sun Safe App on Sun Health Knowledge and Behaviors of Young Teenagers: Results of Pilot Intervention StudiesA balanced approach toward sun exposure and protection is needed by young people. Excessive sun exposure increases their risk for skin cancers such as melanoma, whereas some exposure is necessary for vitamin D and healthy bones. We have developed a new iOS smartphone app-Sun Safe-through a co-design process, which aims to support healthy and balanced decision-making by young teenagers (aged 12-13 years).
Research
Increased levels of solar radiation are associated with reduced type-2 diabetes prevalence: A cross-sectional study of Australian postcodesType-2 diabetes is a leading cause of death and disability. Emerging evidence suggests that ultraviolet radiation or sun exposure may limit its development. We used freely available online datasets to evaluate the associations between solar radiation and type-2 diabetes prevalence across Australia.
Research
Developmental Vitamin D Deficiency in Pregnant Rats Does Not Induce PreeclampsiaPreeclampsia is a pregnancy disorder characterized by hypertension. Epidemiological studies have associated preeclampsia with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring, such as autism and schizophrenia. Preeclampsia has also been linked with maternal vitamin D deficiency, another candidate risk factor also associated with autism.