Repeated UV exposure from Sunbeds increases Non Melanoma Skin Cancer Risk

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is recognised as the principal environmental cause of skin cancer. This is especially true for a form of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) which is the second most common skin cancer (behind basal cell carcinoma). Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignant tumour that arises from the keratinising cells of the epidermis (the second layer of skin below the surface) and has been shown to increase with cumulative exposure to UV radiation. The incidence is increasing worldwide and is highest amongst the Caucasian population.

Chronic UV exposure is the most important risk factor. This helps to explain the very high incidences of skin cancer in countries like Australia, where fair-skinned (skin type1), susceptible people are put at risk by sun exposure. The rise in UVR exposure produces more cases of SCC in populations in equatorial zones. There is an increased risk with holidays in the sun, outdoor occupations and leisure activities, and using artificial tanning beds.

A risk model from the University of Dundee factors in these scenarios with average holiday (average 10.5 days abroad source: ONS) and annual exposure from the sun. The model also implements data from original study of over 400 sunbeds across the UK “Nine out of 10 sunbeds in England emit ultraviolet radiation levels that exceed current safety limits” published in British Journal of Dermatology in 2013. Sunbeds emit UVA and UVB radiation in the electromagnetic wavelength range 280 to 400nm. The model estimates a risk of using a median sunbed (from original study) output for an average 12 min sunbed session about every week (45 sessions per year or 9 min session for 60 sessions per year) over ages from 20–35 (usually sunbed use ages) that there would be a 90% increase in risk by age of 55 years. Investigating the higher output outputs would give an increased risk of 180% while the lower end would still give a increase of 40% of developing a SCC.

While SCC is a fully treatable skin disease there is no need to increase the chances by exposing the skin to artificial UV radiation on top of daily exposure and holiday exposure. Campaigns have been launched through popular media warning of the hazards of sunbeds. It is vital that the public understands the risks of UV exposure. The results of the model indicate that the additional UV dose from sunbeds use compared to normal daily sun exposure potentially adds a significantly increased risk for development of SCC.