Do indoor tanning beds cause cancer?
Limit your exposure to UV rays.
Everyone loves the idea of getting a golden brown tan in the comfort of their own home or in the privacy of a commercial tanning salon, but what are the risks?
Some reports suggest that long term exposure to ultraviolet light like that emitted from tanning beds, or the sun’s natural rays can increase the risk for skin cancer in both men and women. But are the dangers of professional tanning beds really greater than getting your tan the old-fashion way? <br>
A report issued by the National Cancer Institute says that exposure to the ultraviolet rays from a tanning bed can increase the chances of developing malignant melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer by as much as 55% in some people. The NCI claims that using commercial tanning equipment actually thins the skin making it more susceptible to damage.
Who does this affect?
According to these finding everyone who visits a tanning salon is vulnerable to these increases, but woman might be at higher risk. They also point out that the risk is greatest for people with fair skin; blonde, red, or light hair; and blue, green, or gray eyes. Artificial tanning can also be more dangerous for those people that tend to burn easily in natural sun light, have been previously treated for skin cancer or that have a family history of cancer. Interestingly, it would seem that women have a higher risk of developing skin cancer on their backs when using tanning beds.
How can it be prevented?
There are many things that a person can do to protect themselves from the risks of developing skin cancer from artificial light sources:
- avoid tanning beds and booths - use tanning sprays. In fact more and more salons are offering this healthy alternative to a real tan. - Conduct monthly skin exams. Checking for irregular bumps or sores that do not heal is the best way to catch skin cancer in its early stages when it is easiest to treat. - See your doctor or Dermatologist at lease once a year for a through check-up. If discovered early, skin cancer is almost 100% treatable
The facts:
Long term exposure to ultraviolet rays whether form a tanning bed or for the natural rays of the sun does increase your risk of developing certain types of skin cancer. The best way to reduce your risk is to avoid prolonged exposure of any kind. There are some things that can be done to reduce the risk if you feel that you must have a sun tan.
- limit your use of indoor tanning booths<br>
- wear a quality sun tanning lotion - avoid getting a sun burn even from a personal tanning bed
About the Author
Jason Collins is the owner and developer of PowerPageMatrix.com a system designed to help you build a real home-based business. More articles like this can be found at <b>S</b>earch<b>E</b>ngine<b>O</b>wnage. You can contact Jason directly by sending email to jcollins@lakotatoffice.com
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