Home / Health / UK Ministers Eye Total Sunbed Ban Amid Health Fears
UK Ministers Eye Total Sunbed Ban Amid Health Fears
8 Jun
Summary
- Government advisers propose a complete ban on commercial sunbeds.
- Concerns rise over increasing popularity among young people.
- Operators are accused of making false health benefit claims.
Government advisers are urging ministers to consider a complete ban on commercial sunbeds, citing concerns over their rising popularity among young people and operators' false health claims. A report from the Committee on Medical Aspects of Radiation in the Environment (Comare) indicates that current laws have not effectively curbed sunbed use, with suggestions of increasing usage by younger demographics.
Medical professionals, including those from the British Association of Dermatologists, support a ban, noting that operators often fail to meet existing UV radiation limits and age restrictions. Comare recommends that the government explore a total ban on commercial sunbeds, acknowledging potential benefits like saving lives and reducing cancer treatment costs.
The report also highlights that a ban would be cost-effective, potentially reducing skin cancer cases and deaths, thereby easing the burden on the NHS. Countries like Iran, Brazil, and Australia have already implemented similar bans. The Department of Health and Social Care has been approached for comment.
