Impact of legislation on indoor tanning

June 14, 2016

Abstract

As the use of indoor tanning beds gained popularity in the decades following their appearance in the market in the early 1970s, concerns arose regarding their use. Clinical research has revealed an association between indoor tanning and several negative health risks, including the subsequent occurrence of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, the development of psychologic dependence and a tendency toward other high risk health behaviors.

In the face of mounting evidence, legislation has been passed, which includes the restriction of access to tanning beds by minors in 42 states and the District of Columbia, and the recent reclassification by the Food and Drug Administration, which now categorizes tanning beds as class II devices and worthy of restrictions and oversight. 

Early evidence suggests that these labors are resulting in cultural change, although continued efforts are necessary to limit further exposure and better inform the public of the dangers associated with indoor 

Source:

Madigan, LM, et al. Tanning Beds: Impact on Health, and Recent Regulations.  Clinics in Dermatology. In press  doi:10.1016/j.clindermatol.2016.05.016
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0738081X16301523