CDA warns of dangers from tanning

News Release
CDA

The Canadian Dermatology Association’s new “Indoor Tanning is Out” campaign launches today, targeting young women with the message that indoor tanning is not as safe as they think.
“Through its Sun Awareness program, CDA has been committed to reducing incidence and mortality from skin cancer for more than 22 years. The PSA campaign, also on YouTube, is one way we can reach young women with this important health message,” said CDA president Yves Poulin. “Since one Canadian dies of skin cancer about every seven hours, it is imperative that young people avoid deliberately seeking a tan.”
Indoor tanning before the age of 30 has been associated with a significant increase in the risk of melanoma, and recently sunbeds (UV tanning beds) were moved up to the highest cancer risk category - group 1 - ‘carcinogenic to humans’ by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer.
“Research shows 70 percent of indoor tanners are female, primarily 16 to 29 years old. Indoor tanning at this age increases the risk of developing skin cancer. It is very important for women to be aware of the risks of artificial tanning,” said Cheryl Rosen, dermatologist and national director of CDA’s Sun Awareness Program.