Sunbeds : a burning issue needing attention in South Africa

Abstract

There is scientific evidence demonstrating an association between sunbed (tanning bed) use and subsequent development of melanoma. The risk of melanoma skin cancer for individuals who ‘ever used’ sunbeds has been reported to increase by 20%, and by 40% if sunbeds were used before the age of 35 years. In South Africa (SA), skin cancer is among the top 10 cancers and causes ~300 deaths per year. The cost of diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers in SA public and private healthcare settings is estimated at >ZAR90 million per year.