Backing grows for prohibiting teenagers from indoor tanning salons

The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a warning that tanning teens have a heightened risk of cancer of the skin. Teenage tanning bed use, particularly among girls, is increasing. Several scientific studies have found a correlation between tanning bed use among the young and increased skin cancer risk. Laws barring teenagers from using indoor tanning facilities are being recommending by pediatric and dermatological groups in the United States.

Teens getting cancer of the skin from tanning

Because of the risk of skin cancer, it was suggested by the American Academy of Pediatrics that teens shouldn't be allowed to do indoor tanning when making a statement on ultraviolet radiation. The statement, published Monday in the journal Pediatrics, called for pediatricians to push for legislation banning access to indoor tanning for those 18 and younger. There was also a Food and drug administration panel that talked about prohibiting minors from using tanning beds. One suggestion was that parents could give permission for it. Mom and dad are encouraged by the AAP to educate their children about UV protection. Those with a history of melanoma, who sunburn very easily or who freckle easily should especially be warned.

Teenage tanning bed risks

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery explained that over 1 million individuals use indoor tanning salons. Nearly 70 percent of tanning bed users is women and girls from 16 to 29 years old. Melanoma, then basal cell and then squamous cell carcinomas are probably the most common children skin cancers, the ASDS said. Just six severe sunburns in a lifetime increase the risk of melanoma by 50 percent. About 10 to 15 times more UV radiation is used by girls when in tanning beds than is produced at noon, says the AAP. This is the case for about 35 percent of 17-year-old girls. Seven different studies found an increase in the risk of melanoma from indoor tanning before age 35.

Finding a way to make it so teenagers is not allowed to use tanning beds

The recommendations about tanning and cancer for teenagers are something the Food and Drug Administration most likely won't do anything about. Usually the advice of these panels is taken into consideration and done though. Indoor tanning is regulated by over 60 percent of U.S. states currently for minor use. The Indoor Tanning Association insists no scientific evidence links teenage tanning to skin cancer; and said banning teenagers from tanning is for mother and father, not the government to decide.

Citations

U.S. News and World Report

health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/infectious-diseases/articles/2011/02/28/pediatricians-group-backs-ban-on-tanning-booth-use-by-minors

Med Page Today

medpagetoday.com/Pediatrics/GeneralPediatrics/25085

CNN

cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/02/28/tanning.skin.cancer/