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Tanning Beds Are Human Carcinogens: Report from the WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer

Tanning beds cause skin and eye cancer.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is a section of the World Health Organization whose mission is to develop strategies for cancer prevention and control. In June 2009, the agency convened a working group of 20 scientists to reassess the carcinogenicity of various sources of radiation. In the past, the IARC has found sufficient proof that solar radiation is a human carcinogen involved in the development of basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and melanoma. The current working group now finds unquestionable evidence that UV-emitting tanning devices cause melanoma of the skin and of the choroid and ciliary body of the eye. This determination is based on a comprehensive meta-analysis finding that risk for cutaneous melanoma increases by 75% when tanning device use begins before age 30, compared with nonuse (Int J Cancer 2006; 120:1116). The group also cites case-control studies showing increased incidence of ocular melanoma among users of UV-emitting tanning devices (Int J Cancer 2004; 112:896). Their conclusions are supported by mechanistic studies in animal models that show a cytidine-to-thymidine transition in DNA caused by UVA radiation. In humans, this mutation is found in TP53 in premalignant solar keratosis and in malignant skin tumors.

Comment: This report, by a highly respected independent group, validates what dermatologists have known for a long time — that tanning beds cause melanoma. Tanning beds now justly take their place along with x-rays and gamma rays at the forefront of radiation carcinogens. Physicians can cite the IARC conclusions when counseling patients, especially younger individuals, about the hazards of tanning bed use.

— Craig A. Elmets, MD

Published in Journal Watch Dermatology July 30, 2009

Citation(s):

El Ghissassi F et al. A review of human carcinogens — Part D: Radiation. Lancet Oncol 2009 Aug; 10:751.

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