› Forums › Cutaneous Melanoma Community › Melanoma Prevention
- This topic has 15 replies, 5 voices, and was last updated 12 years, 1 month ago by
Phil S.
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- July 30, 2013 at 9:09 pm
The FDA has proposed more stringent control of tanning beds, citing extensive data showing the ties between UV exposure and skin cancer, including melanoma. Their proposals are currently open for public comment, which must be submitted by August 7.
So far they have received over 500 comments–more than 300 of which have been written by owners of tanning salons. In other words, 60% of the comments are from people who are arguing against the new restrictions.
The FDA has proposed more stringent control of tanning beds, citing extensive data showing the ties between UV exposure and skin cancer, including melanoma. Their proposals are currently open for public comment, which must be submitted by August 7.
So far they have received over 500 comments–more than 300 of which have been written by owners of tanning salons. In other words, 60% of the comments are from people who are arguing against the new restrictions.
If you believe we need better control of tanning beds, you can submit your comment to the FDA. This site gives all of the details: http://www.melanoma.org/learn-more/your-action-needed-fdas-proposal-reclassify-tanning-beds
Just a quick word on why I am asking you to consider this. We know that not everyone who tans gets melanoma, just as we know that not everyone who smokes gets lung cancer. But we also know without a doubt that tanning elevates the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. The best estimates I have seen suggest that at least 80% of all melanomas are tied to UV exposure. That might not be the only factor, but it is a significant factor. We know that tanning beds emit levels of UVA and UVB, and that those levels can vary widely from bed to bed. We know that tanning creates a low-level addictive response. And we know that tanning salons are marketed to young people.
In short, we have a known carcinogen that is addictive and is being sold to teenagers.
Tanning salon owners argue that these regulations will hurt business, and that they reflect a "nanny state" mentality. I am a big proponent of freedom and am typically skeptical of increased government regulation. Having said that, we as a society have determined that the unbridled sale of harmful items is not OK. A hundred years ago, stores routinely sold Laudanum (opium) to anyone who wanted it, and the bottles included dosing information for children as young as 3 months old. Now that is illegal, just as it is illegal to sell cigarettes to 8 year olds and whiskey to 12 year olds. When a business owner engages in selling an addicitive carcinogen, they should expect increased scrutiny and regulation.
OK, enough of the soap box. Please look over the information in the link, and consider sending in a comment. It is easy and can be done online. Believe me, in this matter your voice counts!
Tim–MR
- Replies
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- July 31, 2013 at 1:49 pm
Uh, it could help prevent teenagers and young adults from getting melanoma? If the only thing you had to complain about today (well, yesterday) is that a post was slightly off topic, I'd say you had a pretty good day. Seriously, "Shame on you"? As if he said something mean spirited or came on here trying to sell Amway. It's relevant to melanoma. Shame on you for inventing things to get upset over.
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- July 31, 2013 at 2:18 pm
I hate to see young people using these tanning beds; on the other hand, I don't think making them illegal is the answer. Perhaps requiring parental consent … (We can't legistlate everything that is unhealthy. What's next? Making water parks illegal for minors?)
Regardless, I filled out the form in support. This is one of the ways to get the message out regarding the seriousness of melanoma and the risks associated with tanning in any form.
Yes, this is support forum. But it is also an educational forum, and an advocacy.
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- July 31, 2013 at 2:18 pm
I hate to see young people using these tanning beds; on the other hand, I don't think making them illegal is the answer. Perhaps requiring parental consent … (We can't legistlate everything that is unhealthy. What's next? Making water parks illegal for minors?)
Regardless, I filled out the form in support. This is one of the ways to get the message out regarding the seriousness of melanoma and the risks associated with tanning in any form.
Yes, this is support forum. But it is also an educational forum, and an advocacy.
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- July 31, 2013 at 2:18 pm
I hate to see young people using these tanning beds; on the other hand, I don't think making them illegal is the answer. Perhaps requiring parental consent … (We can't legistlate everything that is unhealthy. What's next? Making water parks illegal for minors?)
Regardless, I filled out the form in support. This is one of the ways to get the message out regarding the seriousness of melanoma and the risks associated with tanning in any form.
Yes, this is support forum. But it is also an educational forum, and an advocacy.
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- August 1, 2013 at 12:10 pm
Charlie, I have read this Board daily for three years now, and I usually love your comments, a straight forward no nonsense kind of guy. You remind me of Simon on the original American Idol. However, I was surprised to see your comment on Tim’s post. Sometimes, you just appear as a cranky, angry man who has a target in sight. So, my opinion is that tanning beds and their regulation is a totally relevant part of any melanoma board and is worthy of discussion. My husband is Stage 4, and his melanoma was not related to tanning beds. However, we have two young children, and I support any laws/restrictions that lessens their chances of getting this nasty Beast. So, thanks for posting, Tim!! And thanks for all you do to keep this Board educated in terms of melanoma and it’s risks! Valerie (Phil’s wife) -
- July 31, 2013 at 1:49 pm
Uh, it could help prevent teenagers and young adults from getting melanoma? If the only thing you had to complain about today (well, yesterday) is that a post was slightly off topic, I'd say you had a pretty good day. Seriously, "Shame on you"? As if he said something mean spirited or came on here trying to sell Amway. It's relevant to melanoma. Shame on you for inventing things to get upset over.
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- July 31, 2013 at 1:49 pm
Uh, it could help prevent teenagers and young adults from getting melanoma? If the only thing you had to complain about today (well, yesterday) is that a post was slightly off topic, I'd say you had a pretty good day. Seriously, "Shame on you"? As if he said something mean spirited or came on here trying to sell Amway. It's relevant to melanoma. Shame on you for inventing things to get upset over.
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- August 1, 2013 at 12:10 pm
Charlie, I have read this Board daily for three years now, and I usually love your comments, a straight forward no nonsense kind of guy. You remind me of Simon on the original American Idol. However, I was surprised to see your comment on Tim’s post. Sometimes, you just appear as a cranky, angry man who has a target in sight. So, my opinion is that tanning beds and their regulation is a totally relevant part of any melanoma board and is worthy of discussion. My husband is Stage 4, and his melanoma was not related to tanning beds. However, we have two young children, and I support any laws/restrictions that lessens their chances of getting this nasty Beast. So, thanks for posting, Tim!! And thanks for all you do to keep this Board educated in terms of melanoma and it’s risks! Valerie (Phil’s wife) -
- August 1, 2013 at 12:10 pm
Charlie, I have read this Board daily for three years now, and I usually love your comments, a straight forward no nonsense kind of guy. You remind me of Simon on the original American Idol. However, I was surprised to see your comment on Tim’s post. Sometimes, you just appear as a cranky, angry man who has a target in sight. So, my opinion is that tanning beds and their regulation is a totally relevant part of any melanoma board and is worthy of discussion. My husband is Stage 4, and his melanoma was not related to tanning beds. However, we have two young children, and I support any laws/restrictions that lessens their chances of getting this nasty Beast. So, thanks for posting, Tim!! And thanks for all you do to keep this Board educated in terms of melanoma and it’s risks! Valerie (Phil’s wife)
Tagged: cutaneous melanoma
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