Abstract
The popular bdief in sunshine as a cure for many ills is unfounded; only one of its direct effects on man is beneficial; life in complete darkness can be physiologically satisfactory if vit. D is provided in the diet. The following phases of the subject are discussed: 1. Physical effects (the spectrum of sunlight and penetration of sunlight into the human body). 2. Physiological effects on the skin (sunburn, acquired immunity to sunburn, cancer, vit. D. photosensitization, temperature effects, and others). 3. Physiological systemic effects (the solar heat load, circulatory effects, metabolism and growth, endocrine systems, therapeutic action, heat stroke). 4. Sunlight as a limiting environmental factor.

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