Tanning bed warning labels welcomed by Canadian dermatologists

The Canadian Dermatology Association is welcoming plans to put stricter warning labels on indoor tanning equipment.

The group calls theannouncement by the federal Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq an important first step, but says more needs to be done.

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It wants a nationwide ban on anyone under 18 using tanning beds a step several provinces have already taken.

Aglukkaq announcedSunday that Health Canada will soon require that all tanning beds carry warnings about skin cancer and other potential dangers.

Research has shown that for those under the age of 35 who use the tanning beds, there is a significant added risk of developing melanoma skin cancer.

The regulation of tanning beds for commercial use falls under provincial jurisdiction.

However, Health Canada regulates the sale, lease and import of tanning beds.