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MELBOURNE
BRUNSWICK
BUNDOORA
FISHERMANS BEND
POINT COOK
HAMILTON
HO CHI MINH CITY
HANOI
–
Expert comment on solariums and skin cancer –
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has announced today that it has
elevated sunbeds to its highest cancer risk category, for the first time labelling
solariums as carcinogenic.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) agency has found using solariums
significantly enhances the chances of developing cancer, with the risk of
melanoma – the most lethal form of skin cancer – increasing by 75 per cent in
people who start using tanning salons before the age of 30.
The findings have been published in the British medical journal, The Lancet
Oncology.
While sunbeds were classified in 1992 as a “probable” cancer agent, additional
research was needed to add them to the list of known carcinogens such as
tobacco, asbestos and alcohol.
What does research show about the effects of solarium tanning, particularly on
young people?
How is tanning in a solarium different to exposing skin to the sun?
Should solarium regulation be toughened in light of the IARC’s research?
RMIT University’s Associate Professor Terry Piva is an expert on skin cancer and
the effect of UV radiation on the skin.
Associate Professor Piva is available for comment on solariums and their health
risks.
For interviews: RMIT University’s Associate Professor Terry Piva, (03) 9925
6503 or 0413 155 678.
For general media enquiries: RMIT University Communications, Gosia
Kaszubska, (03) 9925 3176 or 0417 510 735.
29 July, 2009
NEWS 
