Teenagers warned over sunbed use

Teenagers who use sunbeds are being warned off the practice by a piece of street theatre.

Cancer Research UK's Sunbed Trauma is being performed around Manchester city centre on Wednesday.

The show, aimed at 13 to 18-year-olds, features a mock TV news crew attending a so-called crime scene of a teenager willingly damaging their skin.

The Sunbed Association (TSA) said its members were prohibited from allowing under-16s to use its machines.

Cancer Research UK said malignant melanoma was now the most common cancer in young adults aged between 15 and 34.

TSA is not aware of any medical or scientific evidence to support the call for non-use by under 18s The Sunbed Association (TSA)

The street theatre is part of its 2008 Sunsmart campaign, which aims to target young people.

Performances are taking place in Piccadilly Gardens, St Ann's Square and Exchange Square throughout Wednesday.

Campaign manager Caroline Cerny said: "A lot of people know that burning in the sun is a bad idea but surprisingly few realise that the UV rays in sunbeds can prove just as dangerous.

"Young skin is particularly susceptible to damage and we know from research that using sunbeds significantly increases the risk of skin cancer as well as causing premature ageing."

In a statement, The Sunbed Association (TSA) said: "All TSA members operate to a strict code of practice, part of which clearly states that use of sunbeds by under-16s is prohibited even if parental consent has been provided.

"TSA is not aware of any medical or scientific evidence to support the call for non-use by under 18s.

"TSA understands this has come purely from a position of choice and responsibility as 18 is the general age of consent in the UK."

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