Association of sun and UV exposure with blood pressure and cardiovascular disease: A systematic review

•Observational studies have shown inverse associations between 25(OH)D levels and blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.•These findings have not been confirmed by recent clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation.•Our review identified limited evidence that sun exposure protects against high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.•Research is needed to determine if sun exposure has beneficial effects against these diseases independent of vitamin D.