The Melanoma Network Supports Saskatchewan Ban on Teen Tanning

OAKVILLE, ON, April 1, 2015 /CNW/ - The Melanoma Network of Canada (MNC) is pleased that Health Minister Dustin Duncan has committed to introduction of legislation which will prohibit minors from using indoor tanning equipment in Saskatchewan. MNC applauds the Saskatchewan Government's commitment to implement this potentially life saving and critically important legislation and to help reduce the increasing numbers of youth developing skin cancers and melanoma.

"The announcement made by  Minister Duncan is an important step in the prevention of melanoma and skin cancer," said MNC Chair, Annette Cyr. "In Canada, melanoma is one the most frequently occuring cancers, affecting 6500 people in 2014 and causing over 1100 deaths. In many cases it is highly preventable.The majority of melanomas are caused by exposure to ultra violet (UV) radiation which includes radiation from tanning beds. Saskatchewan sees nearly 4000 cases of skin cancer and melanoma annually. Preventing youth access will reduce these numbers while saving lives and and scarce resources for our health care system."

By taking action to ban teens from tanning, Saskatchewan joins the majority of provinces that have already enacted similar restrictions on minors using indoor tanning beds. Cyr said, "Saskatchewan was where I was raised and likely where I started the road to developing my melanoma. While legislation is a much needed step in prevention of cancer for our vulnerable youth, the message here should be that no age group is safe from the radiation of tanning beds and outdoor sun protection and awareness is also needed. Tanning is skin damage, pure and simple. There is no such thing as a safe level of tanning."  

Manitoba and Saskatchewan remain the only provinces without a ban on youth access to tanning beds. MNC spearheaded the campaign to ban tanning for minors in Ontario and has played an active role in pursuing legislation to ban tanning bed access for youth and to create sun safety awareness in each province.

About the Melanoma Network Canada (MNC)
Melanoma Network Canada (MNC) is a national charitable organization dedicated to the prevention and elimination of melanoma. Established in 2009, the MNC works to support early diagnosis and effective treatment of melanoma and skin cancers through education, prevention and awareness programs, innovative research, support for patients and an improved quality of life for those living with melanoma. For information on melanoma or to get involved, please visit us at www.melanomanetwork.ca.

SOURCE Melanoma Network of Canada

Media Contact: Carol Anne Ruscica, Excecutive Director, Melanoma Network of Canada, 905.901.5121 ext. 105, [email protected]