Dermatologists commend Health Canada for new warning labels on tanning beds

OTTAWA, Feb. 24, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Dermatology Association is pleased with the news of Health Canada's decision to implement stricter labelling requirements for indoor tanning equipment.

"Today's announcement made by the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Federal Minister of Health, is an important first step to protecting the health and well-being not only of youth but of all Canadians. Yet, there remains still more to be done," said Dr Gordon Searles, President of the Canadian Dermatology Association.

Until such time as federal legislation is enacted to ban those under the age of 18 from using indoor tanning equipment, the Canadian Dermatology Association is urging all provincial governments to take action in the interest of protecting the health of Canada's youth.

In 2012, estimates indicated there would be more cases of skin cancer diagnosed in Canada than breast, lung and prostate cancers combined (81,300:75,000).

Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, British Columbia and Quebec all recognize the dangers associated with indoor tanning and have made it illegal for their youth to use tanning facilities in their provinces, and the rest of the country should heed their example.

Research shows indoor tanning before the age of 35 has been associated with a significant increase in the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Recently the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer moved sunbeds (UV tanning beds) to the highest cancer risk category—group 1— 'carcinogenic to humans'. Other substances listed as WHO IARC group 1 carcinogens include: arsenic, asbestos, tobacco and plutonium.

SOURCE: Canadian Dermatology Association

Jennifer Scott, Director, Communications
[email protected]
Office: 613.738.1748 x 222