"Indoor tanning is simply not safe," according to dermatologist James M. Spencer, M.D., one of the authors of the article featured in the December 2005 AAD Journal.
He says, "A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) showed that there were 700 emergency room visits because of injuries like sunburns, infections, and eye damage from tanning bed use. In addition to these immediate injuries, tanning bed users have an increased risk of developing skin cancer, including the most deadly form, melanoma, in the long term."
A Newswise report says an elevated skin cancer risk is one of the most serious side effects of indoor tanning.
Dr. Spencer says, "Indoor tanning is practiced solely for cosmetic reasons. Individuals who utilize tanning beds are intentionally putting their health at risk."
