Children and their parents should be counseled on prevention measures, including avoiding tanning, especially as they reach adolescence and appearance becomes a larger issue. |
Children should be encouraged to use sunscreen, wear appropriate clothing and avoid both the strongest midday sun levels and indoor tanning. Skin cancer is the most rapidly growing cause of cancer deaths in the United States, and childhood sun exposure increases the risk. |
Our review clearly showed that the prevention of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer needs to begin in childhood. Reduction in childhood sun exposure and tanning will hopefully stem the rise of skin cancer. |
We had previously shown that ultraviolet light has an effect on mood that tanners value. Now, in this small study, we've shown that some tanners actually experience withdrawal symptoms when the 'feel-good' chemicals are blocked. |