Statement from Ontario's doctors on protecting children from tanning beds

TORONTO, April 26, 2012 /CNW/ - The Ontario Medical Association urges MPPs in all parties to support the Skin Cancer Prevention Act, 2012, introduced today by NDP MPP France Gélinas, Nickelbelt. 

In April 2010, Ontario's doctors added their voice to that of Dermatologists and Cancer Societies in calling for restrictions to tanning bed use in Ontario. Since that time Nova Scotia has restricted their use to those over 18 years of age, and last month British Columbia committed to doing the same.

Evidence shows that skin cancer rates are on the rise and the danger of indoor tanning is clear.  It is time for Ontario to join other provinces and better protect our kids. 

Stewart Kennedy, MD
President
Ontario Medical Association

Tanning Myths & Medical Facts from the OMA

Myth #1 - Tanning beds are safer than the sun
Medical Fact - Tanning beds have the same UV rays, causing the same skin damage, and presenting the same cancer threat. 

Myth #2 -Skin cancer is uncommon.
Medical Fact - Skin cancer is the most common of all cancer types. It accounts for an estimated 1/3 of all new cases of cancer in Canada and its incidence rate continues to rise.  Approximately 1000 Canadians will die from melanoma, the most dangerous skin cancer, this year.

Myth #3 - Only old people get skin cancer
Medical Fact - Data from the American Academy of Dermatology shows men are most likely to be diagnosed with melanoma in their 40s and 50s, while women are now more likely to be diagnosed in their 20s and 30s. 

Myth #4 - The incidence of skin cancer is decreasing.
Medical Fact - A recent study the Mayo Clinic found that from 1970 to 2009, the incidence of melanoma increased by 8-fold among young women and 4-fold among young men (aged 18-39).

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