Ban on the use of sunbeds by under 18s a step closer

Subject: Public health

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) has welcomed the launch of a Private Members Bill by Cardiff North MP Julie Morgan to restrict the use of sunbeds.

The CIEH has long campaigned for stricter control on the use of artificial tanning equipment, because of the risks to health. Skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in the UK, with over 10,400 malignant melanoma cases and at least 81,500 non-melanoma skin cancers recorded in 2006.[1]

CIEH Principal Policy Officer Jenny Morris said:

“This is a huge step in the right direction. There is clear evidence that the use of tanning equipment just once a month can increase your risk of skin cancer by over half.

“These risks are increased in the young, highlighted by a number of incidents of children being seriously burned from unsupervised sunbed use.

“We must also not forget that the same risks for over 18s apply. Well trained staff providing good advice, and information about the health risks should also be made available.”

“The Bill must be rapidly turned into law if lives are to be saved.”

Intermittent high dose rate UV radiation exposure is associated with increased risk of melanoma at all ages of life.

The Sunbeds Bill will be launched today with an expert briefing and MPs photocall in the House of Commons. The Secretary of State for Health, Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP, will attend and say a few words. He will be joined by Girls Aloud singer Nicola Roberts, who is presenting a BBC documentary on tanning.

The Bill is sponsored by a cross-party group of MPs and will have its Second Reading on Friday 29th January.

Notes to editors

• The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) is the professional voice for environmental health. It ensures the highest standards of professional competence in its members, in the belief that through environmental health action people's health can be improved
• The CIEH represents over 10,000 members working in the public, private and non-profit sectors. For more information about the CIEH visit www.cieh.org
• For further information please contact James Davis on 0207 827 6303 / 07710 746210 or email j.davis@cieh.org or Andrew Hamadanian on 0207 827 5922.

[1] COMARE 13 Report: The health effects and risks arising from the exposure to UV radiation from artificial tanning devices