Melanoma Network of Canada applauds Ontario government for introducing a bill to ban indoor tanning for youth

TORONTO, March 7, 2013 /CNW/ - The Melanoma Network of Canada (MNC) is pleased by the introduction today of a bill by the Ontario government that will ban teens under age 18 from using indoor tanning equipment.

"Today's announcement is very welcome news," said MNC Chair, Annette Cyr. "By introducing this bill the Ontario government is signalling that it is committed to the fight against skin cancer, and Melanoma in particular, and understands the serious risks posed by artificial tanning equipment. We have been pushing hard for this legislation and we're very pleased that the Ontario government is taking action."

Ontario follows the lead of many other provinces, including British Columbia, Manitoba, Quebec and Nova Scotia. Moreover, today's legislation builds upon the recent by-laws passed in Oakville, Mississauga and in Peel Region that banned teens from tanning. Ontario now joins many other countries with similar legislation, including France, Germany and Australia, as well as the majority of American states that have already enacted similar laws.

"It is our hope that the remaining provinces and territories will follow Ontario's lead and that a nation-wide ban on teen tanning will be in place soon," said Cyr. "We know that even limited exposure to tanning equipment in youth can greatly increase the risk of developing melanoma or other forms of skin cancer later in life, in some cases by up to 75 per cent. It is imperative that we take action now and I call on all parties to pass this bill as soon as possible."

About Melanoma

Melanoma is one of the fastest-growing cancers worldwide, and can affect anyone regardless of sex, age or race. It is one of the most frequently-diagnosed cancers in Canada, affecting 5,800 people in 2012 and causing 970 deaths. The incidence of melanoma has been increasing for the past 30 years, more rapidly among men than any other cancer, and more rapidly among women than any other cancer except lung cancer.

About the Melanoma Network of Canada (MNC)

Melanoma Network of Canada (MNC) is a patient-led organization dedicated to the prevention and elimination of melanoma. Established in 2009 by a small group of patients and caregivers, the MNC works in collaboration with medical professionals, health care agencies and other stakeholders to educate, advocate and fund for early diagnosis and effective treatment of melanoma, education, prevention and awareness programs, relevant and innovative research, support for patients and an improved quality of life for those living with melanoma.

SOURCE: Melanoma Network of Canada

Media Contact:

Annette Cyr, Chair
Melanoma Network of Canada
289-242-2010
[email protected]