EU Scientific Committee warns of dangers of sunbeds
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP) has recommended that under-18s and those whose skin type puts them at greater risk of skin cancers avoid the use of sunbeds and artificial tanning devices. The incidence of skin cancer in Europe is rising. According to the European School of Oncology, there are 460,000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer (the most common type) a year in Europe; if detected early, this type of cancer can usually be treated successfully. However, the main cause of skin cancer deaths is melanoma; although it is less common, with just 35,000 cases diagnosed a year in Europe, melanoma causes 9,000 deaths. The main cause of both types of skin cancer is too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. For most people, the main source of UV radiation is the sun. However, since the early 1990s, the use of sunbeds and other artificial tanning devices has risen rapidly, particularly among younger people, as having a tan has become fashionable. For many, a significant proportion of their UV exposure now comes from these artificial sources. Those identified as being at particular risk include those who tend to burn; those whose skin does not tan; people with freckles; people with atypical or multiple moles and those with a family history of melanoma. The risk of melanoma also appears to be higher when used by those under 18. As it often takes a long time for skin cancers to develop, it will take several years before the real picture of the role of UV tanning devices in inducing skin cancer becomes fully apparent. 'We need to act rapidly in order to raise public awareness of the risks associated with sunbeds,' said Markos Kyprianou, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection. 'We also need guidance to consumers to help them recognise whether they have risk factors and should not use these devices.' The European Commission plans to inform the public about the recommendations of the report, something it will do through consumer organisations and national authorities. It will also produce, in co-operation with the European Dermatologists Association, a booklet to help consumers recognise whether they are at risk.