Skin cancer is on the rise and young women are one of the hardest hit groups, says Joel Schlessinger MD.
The risks of tanning beds and sun bathing have been well documented and confirmed by studies within the last few years. While many are choosing to avoid this dangerous habit, the results of years of tanning are becoming more and more apparent, especially in young women. This article shared by Joel Schlessinger reveals that melanoma has increased eightfold in women under 40.
Frequent use of tanning beds is a major contributor to this trend, says Joel Schlessinger MD.
This article features a study performed by Mayo Clinic that reveals which age groups have seen the largest increase in skin cancer cases. Researchers speculate that young women are seeing an increase because they are the most likely to use tanning beds. It is estimated that 70 percent of the 20 million people who use tanning beds each year are women under the age of 40.
Because the lamps in tanning beds give off 10 to 15 times more radiation that the sun, women who tan are seeing cases of melanoma earlier in their lives. Even women who do not use tanning beds can be more at risk if they are exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
Women should take precautions to reduce their risks, advises Joel Schlessinger MD.
Along with avoiding tanning beds, women should limit the amount of time they spend in the sun. If you are exposed to the sun, always wear a broad spectrum sunscreen and reapply every two hours. You should also visit a dermatologist at least once a year to check for signs of melanoma and skin cancer.
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