The Food and Drug Administration proposed new rules that would prohibit use of indoor tanning devices for those under the age of 18. The proposed rule would also require indoor tanning facilities to inform adult users about the health risks of indoor tanning and to obtain a signed risk acknowledgment from these users. The use of indoor tanning devices is associated with an increased risk of skin cancer. Across the country, 16 states have already prohibited use of indoor tanning devices for those under age 18. Wisconsin law bans the use of tanning beds for those under the age of 16. However, 1 in 5 female high school students, in Wisconsin, have used an indoor tanning device in the past year.
For more information about the proposed rule and/or to comment visit http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm350790.htm.
To learn more about indoor tanning in Wisconsin, please read the WI CCC Issue Brief and see the WI CCC Program Infographic on melanoma.