William Atkins
Sunday, 21 September 2008 21:56
Science -
Health
Page 3 of 4
THIRD ARTICLE
The third article “Ultraviolet wavebands and melanoma initiation” is authored by Dorothy C. Bennett, of the Division of Basic Medical Sciences, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom.
The
abstract to Dr. Bennett’s paper states,
“In view of claims that ultraviolet radiation-emitting sunbeds are safe, or safe when they emit only longer wavelengths, research findings are reviewed here on the effects of ultraviolet wavebands A and B … on mutagenesis and carcinogenesis in skin, with particular reference to melanocytes and melanoma."
She adds,
“Both UVA and UVB radiation have been shown to induce mutations, as well as mutagenic photoproducts such as cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, in human skin. UVB can induce melanoma in susceptible mice and in xenografted human skin engineered to express melanocyte growth factors. There is evidence for photosensitization of melanocytes by melanin, especially pheomelanin. UVA can induce melanoma in pigmented fish, and melanocytic hyperplasia in pigmented opossums, but has not generally been tested for melanoma induction in pigmented mammals or in human skin.”
The abstract ends by saying,
“There is no experimental basis for a claim that UVA is safe, and recreational exposure to this known mutagen should be discouraged.”
Her concluding remarks, within the paper, are:
•
“Pending better experimental data on whether UVA can indeed cause melanoma in mammals, and given that it is mutagenic and cell mutations can cause cancer, much stronger steps should be taken internationally to warn users of sunbeds – even those emitting UVA only – that this activity may be hazardous, such as mandatory warning notices….”
• “Specifically use by those under 18 [years of age]
should be banned, and publicity claiming that UVA sunbeds are safe should not be permitted.”
You can read the entire scientific article at “
Ultraviolet wavebands and melanoma initiation.”
According to the U.S. News and World Report article, John Overstreet (executive director of the Indoor Tanning Association) counters the conclusions of these three medical research articles.
Overstreet says,
"Here are three more studies that make irresponsible assertions without providing any concrete link between indoor tanning and melanoma. The fact is, UV light provides vitamin D, which helps the body ward off many types of diseases, and the rewards that come with moderate and responsible exposure to UV light far outweigh the consequences of not getting enough of it."
Decide for yourself. There seems to always be different sides, and opinions, to any subject.
Page four lists several websites that talk about skin cancer and indoor tanning.
