The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) released a statement this week (07/29/09) cla...

1. the dangers of tanning beds
The International Agency for Research on Cancer
(IARC) released a statement this week (07/29/09)
classifying tanning beds as "carcinogenic to
humans." The primary concern is melanoma, the
deadliest type of skin cancer. Damaged DNA can
lead to cancer. Based on the IARC report, which
contained data from more than 20 studies, the
risk of melanoma is raised by 75% when the
usage of tanning beds starts before age 30.
About 10% of all cancers on the genital skin are
melanoma, so women and men who've used tanning beds (or who continue to use them in spite of
their threat) should make sure their yearly skin surveil for skin cancer comprises a look at the
genital skin.
There's another sexual health threat associated with tanning beds, a viral skin infection called
molluscum contagiosum. Molluscum is transmitted by close skin-to skin contact, such as sex, but it
may also remain living on things in a warm, moist environment so it can also be transmitted by
sharing towels and from tanning beds.
Molluscum contagiosum is a benign disease. The virus infects the surface layers of the skin
producing little bulges that vary in size (they can be as little as the head of a pin or as large as the
point of an eraser). The bulges are often painless, but they could itch and if they're right in the
underwear line can be irritated.
People who have weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or who have had an organ
transplant, are at risk for more locally competitive infections.
While the disease is just not serious, molluscum contagiosum should be treated to reduce
transmission. Opening the bulges at home is not recommended as this could enable the virus to
spread to other body parts as well as raises the risk of a more serious bacterial disease.
Prescriptions lotions are available for individuals who favor treatment in the privacy of the home.
Cancer and infections? Just say no to tanning beds.