BMJ Sunbed Article
Today a new article examining banning of commercial sunbeds in the UK has been published by the BMJ.
Our Chief Executive, Susanna Daniels, was a co-author on this important paper. The article highlights the ineffectiveness of current regulation, including the continued and considerable use of under 18s, citing Melanoma Focus data that 34% of 16 and 17 year olds use sunbeds. It also identifies the lack of knowledge of the number and location of sunbed outlets, though density is highest in the north west and north east of England, and in the most deprived areas.
Melanoma Focus strongly recommend that sunbeds are avoided. We urge the Government to take significant steps to reduce usage. The case for banning commercial sunbed use should be considered and if not taken forward, notable action, including tackling the ongoing use of sunbeds by under 18s as well as introducing new regulations, such as banning all commercial sunbed advertising and regular monitoring of irradiance levels must be implemented as an alternative.
The Government is currently developing a 10- year Cancer Plan, this will be published in the coming months, and we will keep you updated.