Skin Cancer and Indoor Tanning

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Cancer Prevention

The misperceptions and deception around indoor tanning is pervasive. Despite the industry's claims of "healthy and attractive skin," the science is very clear.  The ultraviolet (UV) radiation caused by indoor tanning beds is proven to cause skin cancer.   

We're working in state legislatures across the country to prohibit teenagers - and anyone under age 18 - from using tanning beds, booths and other indoor tanning devices.  Skin cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the nation and results in nearly 14,000 deaths per year. 

One in nine high school girls have used a tanning device.

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Two Rhode Island Lawmakers Receive National Distinguished Advocacy Award for Championing Lifesaving Cancer Public Policy

September 29, 2021
Rhode Island

PROVIDENCE – Senate Majority Whip Maryellen Goodwin and House Deputy Majority Whip Mia Ackerman each received the National Distinguished Advocacy Award this week, the most prestigious award presented by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), in recognition of their significant contributions to the fight against cancer.

Cancer Patients and Survivors Rally Legislators Virtually Due to Coronavirus

May 15, 2020
Ohio

COLUMBUS, OH – The unpredictable and dynamic nature of COVID-19 is no match for the steadfast commitment of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s (ACS CAN) volunteers. Because of the virus and the elevated risk for those with compromised immune systems became a roadblock for the annual Cancer Action

Mississippi Legislators Turn Their Backs on Teens Again

March 3, 2020
Mississippi

Statement from Kimberly Hughes, Mississippi government relations director at American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), on the state legislature’s failure to protect teens from the dangers of tanning beds for five years in a row.

Cancer Survivors, Patients and Advocates Wear Suits and Sneakers® to Capitol, Urging Lawmakers to Make Cancer a Priority

February 5, 2020
South Carolina

COLUMBIA, SC – February 5, 2020 – Today, the front steps of the South Carolina State House were covered in sneakers to remind lawmakers of individuals who had lose their lives to cancer and the work they can do to prevent premature deaths. Legislators on both sides of the

Skin Cancer and Indoor Tanning Resources

Protecting Teens from Indoor Tanning Will Save Lives

January 24, 2020

The greatest avoidable known risk factor for skin cancer is the use of indoor tanning devices. Yet, each year, approximately nine million Americans engage in indoor tanning.The desire for a tanned appearance causes many people, especially young adults and teenagers, to ignore the serious risks and health warnings and use indoor tanning devices.

Just the Facts: Indoor Tanning

January 24, 2020

Despite reputable scientific studies showing that tanning devices can cause skin cancer, misconceptions about the risks and dangers of indoor tanning persist. This is due, in part, to misleading advertising and health claims by the tanning industry. This fact sheet debunks many of the most egregious industry claims about indoor tanning.

Just the Facts: Skin Cancer

January 22, 2020

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, and rates have been rising for the past 30 years.This factsheet discusses the types of skin cancer, risk factors for the disease, and how it can be prevented.