Are tanning beds "safe"? Human studies of melanoma.
Controversy continues over the carcinogenic properties of tanning beds. The tanning industry "sells" tanning beds as a safe alternative to UV exposure for both tanning as well as vitamin D biosynthesis. But, how safe are tanning beds? Epidemiologic data - incomplete and unsatisfactory - suggests that tanning beds are not safer than solar ultraviolet radiation and that they may have independent effects from solar exposure that increase risk for melanoma.
Berwick
Marianne
M
University of New Mexico Cancer Research and Treatment Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA. mberwick@salud.unm.edu
D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D006801:Humans; D008027:Light / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008545:Melanoma / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D012307:Risk Factors; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology / Q000528:radiation effects; D012880:Skin Pigmentation / Q000528:radiation effects; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects*