A recent study from the University of Edinburgh has sparked debate over the health impacts of sunbed use, suggesting that moderate UV exposure, including from sunbeds, may be linked to lower mortality rates from cancer and heart disease. The findings challenge long-standing warnings about the risks associated with sunbed use and have been welcomed by industry representatives who advocate for a reassessment of public health messaging on the issue.
Study Highlights Potential Health Benefits of UV Exposure
The University of Edinburgh’s study, which examines the effects of ultraviolet (UV) exposure on health, has revealed that responsible sunbed use could have significant health benefits. The research indicates that individuals who regularly use sunbeds are at a lower risk of dying from cancer and heart disease, the two leading causes of death in the UK. These findings have prompted calls from industry leaders to reconsider the narrative surrounding sunbed use.
Gary Lipman, Chairman of The Sunbed Association, responded positively to the study, emphasising the need for updated public health guidance. “We very much welcome this study, not least because it exemplifies the necessity for public health messaging about responsible UV exposure and, in particular, responsible sunbed use, to be urgently re-visited in the context of full body health,” Lipman said.
Challenging the Anti-Sunbed Narrative
Lipman criticised what he described as outdated and flawed data that has historically been used to vilify sunbed use. He argued that the new findings from the University of Edinburgh offer compelling evidence that contradicts the prevailing view within the medical community, particularly among dermatologists, who have long cautioned against sunbed use due to its potential link to skin cancer.
“There have been a number of studies over the years that demonstrate there is no causal relationship between responsible sunbed use and melanoma, yet these continue to be ignored by the dermatology profession and anti-sunbed lobby,” Lipman continued. He suggested that the new study’s evidence of lower mortality rates from cancer and heart disease among sunbed users should prompt a shift in how sunbed use is perceived and regulated.
Call for Responsible Sunbed Use
While advocating for a change in public health messaging, Lipman also stressed the importance of responsible UV exposure, whether through sunbeds or natural sunlight. He urged sunbed users to seek out salons that are members of The Sunbed Association, where they can receive guidance from trained staff on how to tan safely and responsibly.
“We would always advocate responsible exposure to UV, whether on a sunbed or in the sun,” Lipman said. “Sunbed users should always use a salon in membership of The Sunbed Association, where they will receive the correct advice and information from trained staff about how to tan responsibly.”
Ongoing Debate
The findings from the University of Edinburgh’s study are likely to reignite the debate over the safety and health implications of sunbed use. While the study suggests potential benefits, it is expected that the medical community will scrutinise the results closely, particularly given the long-established concerns about the risk of skin cancer associated with UV exposure.
The Sunbed Association, however, views the study as a turning point and is calling for a re-evaluation of current guidelines and public health messaging. As the discussion continues, the study’s findings could have significant implications for how sunbed use is regulated and perceived in the UK.
For more information about responsible sunbed use and to find your nearest Sunbed Association member salon, visit www.sunbedassociation.org.uk.