The Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) is targeting young women in an anti-tanning campaign. The effort includes posters and advertisements (radio and television) and is slated to run through June, covering popular tanning times such as spring break and prom. The spots boast an “Indoor Tanning is Out” message, delivered by survivors of melanoma who are now encouraging others to make sure they’re informed about the use of indoor tanning equipment.
The National Director of the CDA's Sun Awareness Program, Dr. Cheryl Rosen, acknowledges that the organization’s work with focus groups revealed that “people felt a tan made them look sexier, made them look more beautiful.” As such, CDA decided to target young women in their 20s and teens – a population they feel is largely frequenting tanning salons.
Only one jurisdiction in Canada has a law preventing those under the age of 18 from using tanning equipment. However, Rosen indicates that groups of dermatologists are working to expand that ban beyond New Brunswick.
Doug McNabb, president of Canada's Fabutan Sun Tan Studios, urges people to examine the claims regarding UV light made by anti-tanning groups and studies. Specifically, he mentions that there can be a correlation between two things (such as swimming and drowning) without establishing a cause-and-effect relationship. Fabutan has measures in place to help customers properly navigate the use of indoor tanning equipment – including varying degrees of parental involvement for those tanners under 18.
Related Articles:
Canadian Dermatologists Lobby For Teen Tanning Bans
Prince Edward Island Considers Under-18 Tanning Ban
Source:
The Canadian Press: Dermatology association urges young women to learn facts about indoor tanning
