News
Letter in Lincoln Journal Star: Stand up against skin cancer
March 22, 2018
The following letter was published in the Lincoln Journal Star on January 14, 2018
The American Cancer Society estimates that about 10,000 Nebraskans will be newly diagnosed with cancer this year, including a projected 540 cases of skin cancer. That’s why I support a bill being considered at the statehouse, LB838, that would prohibit children from using indoor tanning devices.
This bill is especially important to me as a teacher. I see the girls in my classes preparing for major life events by taking a huge risk and using tanning beds.
The link between tanning bed use and increased skin cancer risk is indisputable. It’s even more staggering when it comes to the risk faced by young people. In fact, indoor tanning use before the age of 35 increases melanoma risk by 59 percent. Limiting tanning bed use to adults is a smart decision.
Too many teens are unwittingly putting themselves at risk for a lifetime of cancer treatments, doctors’ visits and premature death for a brief tan for spring break or prom. We can and must do better.
That’s why I’m thanking Sen. Anna Wishart for sponsoring this bill and asking other lawmakers to vote in favor of this lifesaving legislation. I encourage the Nebraska Legislature to stand up and make this bill law.
Janelle Masters, Hastings
Volunteer, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network