Sir, sun beds predominantly emit UVA radiation that is thought to be the least damaging of the UV radiation spectrum. However, there is growing evidence that the latest sun beds marketed produce higher levels of UVB to imitate the solar spectrum and speed the tanning process.1

Some 13,200 cases of malignant melanoma and 2 million cases of skin cancers occur worldwide each year and the Food and Drug Administration (United States) reclassified UV tanning devices from class I (low to moderate risk) to class II (moderate to high risk) devices in September 2014.2 Scientific literature shows the mortality rate from skin cancer due to tanning is greater than the mortality rate from lung cancer due to smoking.2 The individual risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) increases by 67% and 29% respectively by using one indoor tanning session. Approximately 25% of early-onset BCC could be avoided if individuals have never tanned indoors.3 The lower lip is approximately 12 times more commonly affected as compared to the upper lip, owing to its exposure to UV radiation.

These facts suggest that the general public may be vulnerable to deadly cancers through these sun beds. Although regulations already exist regarding the use of sun beds, public awareness is lacking which could be due to a lack of pictorial and statutory warnings highlighting their harmful effects. Awareness and warnings explaining the risks involved may solve the problems associated with sun beds.