Regulate Sunbeds now

Green MP Sue Kedgley is calling on the government to take immediate action to regulate the sunbed industry following confirmation by the International Agency for Research on Cancer that they are carcinogenic to humans.

“There can be no excuse for inaction now,” Ms Kedgley said. “New Zealand has one of the highest rates of melanoma in the world. If we are serious about reducing our huge melanoma risk, we must introduce a legally enforceable standard governing the use of sun beds, including a prohibition on their use by people under 18,” Ms Kedgley said.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer research confirmed that there is a 75% increase in the risk of skin cancer for people who start using sunbeds before the age of thirty, said Ms Kedgley.

“We cannot turn a blind eye to the latest research. It would be irresponsible not to regulate sunbed use when they know they are carcinogenic and pose a huge risk to young people.”

“Sunbeds are popping up all over New Zealand and two Consumer Institute surveys of sunbeds, and one carried out by the Green Party had found only a tiny percentage of providers complied with the voluntary standard.”

“We know from surveys and anecdotal evidence that young people are using them on a regular basis, and many are oblivious to the risks they are placing themselves under.”

“Indeed some believe that sunbeds provide a safe way of getting tanned – a perception fuelled by some in the industry,” Ms Kedgley said.

The level of UV rays that people are exposed to on a sunbed is at least five times stronger than the midday sun, said Ms Kedgley.

For further information

Sunbeds and UV Radiation World Health Organisation Press Release (http://www.iarc.fr/en/media-centre/iarcnews/2009/sunbeds_uvradiation.php)

Sunbeds Not Cool Says Cancer Society Cancer Society Press Release

Consumers’ Institute Surveys on Sunbeds Consumer Institute August 2006