California Bans Under-18s from Using Sunbeds
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October 10, 2011 TheFreshOutlook  |
As more medical evidence proves the dangers of using sunbeds, California becomes the first state to raise the age limit.
California has become the first US state to ban the use of sunbeds to anyone under the age of 18.
The bill, which was signed by Governor Jerry Brown on Sunday, aims to protect young people from the “lethally dangerous” radiation used in sunbeds and prevent them from developing skin cancer in later life.
“If everyone knew the true dangers of tanning beds, they’d be shocked,” said state senator Ted Lieu. “Skin cancer is a rising epidemic and the leading cause of cancer death for women between 25 and 29.”
He added that a higher age limit was essential in California, as recent medical evidence shows the dangers of “ultraviolent-emitting radiation” from sunbeds.
Under current state law, no person under the age of 14 is allowed to use the sunbed; however, from January 1 the age limit is set to change to 18.
The restriction has been welcomed by many health officials throughout the state; however, some organisations remain disappointed with the outcome and claim it will damage the industry.
The US Indoor Tanning Association told the Associated Press that under-18s make up between 5% to 10% of its customer base, and by cutting them off completely the bill would have a negative effect on business.
The UK government announced a higher age limit in April 2011. Throughout England and Wales it is now illegal for under-18s to use a tanning bed, as it could seriously affect their future health.
Speaking at the time of the ban Dr Mark Goodfield, consultant dermatologists and President of the British Association of Dermatologists said: “Sun and sunbeds can be enormously damaging. At the very least they age the skin prematurely, causing early wrinkling and age spots.
“Skin cancer is also a very real threat to all ages, and is still the biggest killer of young people. Sunbeds undoubtedly have a role to play in this, although of course those who use them are also more likely to [put] themselves in danger with excessive sun exposure.”
Nonetheless, the UK’s Sunbed Association maintain that sunbed use is not dangerous. Speaking to The Fresh Outlook, a spokesperson said that tanning beds are “not dangerous at all if you use them responsibly.”
She also said that the association supported the higher age limit but rejected the idea of a complete ban.
If you want to ban sunbeds “you’d have to ban people going on holidays”, she said, adding that exposure to the sun was far more dangerous than UV exposure from sunbeds.
By Catherine Rees
[Image courtesy of Rob Igo Photography]
