UNITED STATES NEWS: FDA Proposes Universal Bans on Minors Using Tanning Beds

The Food and Drug Administration proposed a ban on the use of sunbeds for under 18’s,
universally across America. With the regular use of tanning beds increasing a person risk of getting cancer by 75%, Federal health officials agree it is the effective way to reduce skin cancer in teenagers.

 

The proposal would mean tanning bed users’ sign a consent form prior to using the beds, acknowledging the risks of the radiation they emit. 23 of America’s 50 states have already banned sunbeds for under 18’s but with almost 74,000 new cases of melanoma (known as the deadliest skin cancer) predicted to be diagnosed this year in America, many health organisations agree the ban needs to be implemented.

The acting FDA Commissioner Stephen Ostroff commented that the proposal "is intended to help protect young people from a known and preventable cause of skin cancer and other harms."

The UK’s strict regulations on sunbeds for under 18’s, implemented in 2011 unfortunately is not reflected in the number of diagnoses. In 2011, almost 13,400 people were diagnosed with melanoma, however, in 2012 a reported 13,500 were diagnosed with the disease.

However, the importance of preventing children from being at risk to skin cancer is still as pivotal as ever. The problem in the US appears to be much larger, with 1.6 million teenagers using sunbeds across the country and 59% of college students admitting to using tanning beds.

In order for the new law to work effectively civil penalties and fines would be imposed on tanning facilities, which do not act in accordance with the regulations. Therefore, making it harder for underage tan-lovers to have access to the tanning beds.

The website Doctor Wellgood, is dedicated to teaching young adults about managing their health, it highlights the dangers of sunbeds. Doctor Wellgood claimed 'skin cancer is the

 highest rising cancer in the UK and it is on the whole preventable. And sunbeds are classified as the same cariogenic level as tobacco.’ As it stands, there are already concerns about the standards of tanning beds.

One significant skin cancer survivor that has spoken openly about the tanning addiction she suffered from the age of 13 is 22 year old Megan Worrall.  After six years of tanning Megan noticed two moles on her leg and stomach. Now she urges everyone to choose fake tan alternatives.

It is of the upmost importance to be able to detect the symptoms of skin cancer. A spot, mole or sore that does not heal within four weeks and is itchy or painful should be checked by a GP. For more information visit http://www.bad.org.uk/for-the-public/skin-cancer