The Melanoma Network of Canada Celebrates the Passage of Bill 30 to Ban Teen Tanning in Ontario

OAKVILLE, ON, Oct. 9, 2013 /CNW/ - The Melanoma Network of Canada (MNC) is today celebrating the Ontario Government's passage of Bill 30, the Skin Cancer Prevention Act. This legislation will prevent those under 18 years of age from accessing indoor tanning equipment in Ontario and will save many lives.

"We are so proud that this life saving Bill has finally passed," said MNC Chair and three time melanoma survivor, Annette Cyr. "Melanoma is the second most commonly occurring cancer for Canadians 15-34 and tanning beds pose a significant risk for developing skin cancer or melanoma. For years we have advocated tenaciously for Bill 30 - and its three predecessors - to become law to prevent Ontario teens from exposure to life threatening UV rays."

By taking action to ban teens from tanning, Ontario joins Prince Edward Island, Quebec, British Columbia, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland that have already enacted similar restrictions for minors. In 2012, the MNC spearheaded the campaign to ban tanning for teens in the municipalities of Mississauga, Oakville and in the Region of Peel. The charity has been urging governments across Canada, including Ontario, to pass this legislation for over 4 years.

"We are thankful to all three parties for putting politics aside and passing this life saving legislation," said Cyr. "We will remember today as a turning point in the fight against melanoma."

About the Melanoma Network Canada (MNC)
Melanoma Network Canada (MNC) is a Canada's most recognized authority on melanoma for patients and their caregivers. MNC works in collaboration with medical professionals, health care agencies and other stakeholders to educate, advocate and fund for prevention and early diagnosis and effective
treatment of melanoma. For information on melanoma or to get involved, please visit us at www.melanomanetwork.ca.

SOURCE: Melanoma Network of Canada

Media Contacts:
Annette Cyr, Chair, Melanoma Network of Canada
905.901.5121 ext. 101, [email protected]

Jessica Bowes, Marketing and Communications Manager, Melanoma Network of Canada
905.901.5121 ext. 104 [email protected]