July 10, 2014
Louis Barich MD
The FDA has reclassified tanning beds after recognizing the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) tanning radiation and now requires warnings on sunlamp products. These are the early steps to continued regulatory efforts that should eventually result in a total ban on UV tanning radiation for minors. All of us have a responsibility to promote community health by reminding our patients about the following hazards:
- In 1978, the Wolfe Tanning Beds arrived in America. In 1978, approximately 500,000 cases of skin cancer were diagnosed. In 2013, more than 3,500,000 cases of skin cancer were diagnosed, and the number continues to grow.
- Cancer of the skin is the leading cancer cause of death among women between the ages of 25 and 29 years.
- Cancer of the skin is the second-leading cancer cause of death among women between the ages of 30 and 34 years.
- The lifetime incidence of melanoma 50 years ago was about 1 in 1500. Because we are now exposing ourselves to more tanning radiation, the lifetime incidence is now 1 in 100, soon to be 1 in 90.
- During a lifetime, 1 out of every 5 students is destined to develop a skin cancer.
- Tanning bed radiation weakens the immune system.
- It is safer to eat properly and take your vitamin D pills daily than subject your skin to unnecessary UV tanning radiation.
- If goggles are not worn religiously in the UV tanning booth, premature cataract formation can occur.
- Many people are not aware that they are taking photosensitizing medications, which can lead to acute sunburn when exposed to UV tanning radiation.
If all other warnings fail, make sure that our patients know UV tanning radiation causes premature aging of their skin.
In the process of making money, the tanning bed industry injures children. The medical profession makes money by treating the injuries caused by tanning bed radiation. However, the medical profession would rather prevent diseases than make money from needless tanning bed injuries to children. This reclassification from class I (low risk) to class II (moderate risk) may make it easier to pass legislation that will prohibit the sale of hazardous tanning bed radiation to children.
In summary, it is our responsibility to let our patients know that there is no such thing as a “safe” or “healthy” tan. An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.