During the past year, we’ve seen important developments in skin cancer awareness and anti-tanning efforts around the world, as new studies have strengthened the link between ultraviolet (UV) tanning and increased risk of melanoma. One key report for the first time declared UV radiation from tanning devices carcinogenic (cancer-causing) to humans; in another, genetic researchers revealed that most of the mutations found in a melanoma were caused by damage from UV radiation. These events prompted The Skin Cancer Foundation to campaign for stricter regulations and more oversight of tanning devices. We commissioned a white paper summarizing the research on the dangers of UV tanning. This led members of Congress to petition the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reclassify tanning machines to better reflect the serious dangers they pose. Thanks to our efforts, along with those of the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention, the FDA met on March 25 to hear testimony on the reclassification of tanning beds and lamps. Reclassification to Class II or III would permit stricter regulations and more oversight.

In July 2009, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), affiliated with the World Health Organization (WHO), added UV-emitting tanning devices to its list of the most dangerous forms of cancer-causing radiation. In this landmark report, UV radiation from tanning beds and lamps was included in the small group of radiation sources known to cause cancer in humans — a group including plutonium and solar UV radiation. We contacted Dr. Philippe Autier, former head of the IARC’s Prevention Group, which authored the report, and he agreed to share the story of how the group reached its momentous decision to list tanning beds among the world’s most virulent carcinogens. In his article, Dr. Autier traces the history of the research linking UVR from tanning devices with skin and eye cancers. Click here to read Dr. Autier's article.

In December 2009, the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute in Hinxton, UK, achieved another milestone, revealing that its scientists had decoded the entire genetic makeup (genome) of a melanoma. The researchers found that the vast majority of the mutations found in the melanoma were caused by damage to the skin cells’ DNA by the sun’s UV radiation. This groundbreaking research is covered in this article.

These studies are of international importance, and to help spread our sun safety message to a global audience, we have taken steps to expand our International Advisory Council. Our 68 members, including new members from Jordan, Kuwait, and Thailand, represent 26 countries. They are invaluable to our international outreach and educational efforts.

One of the centerpieces of our international outreach is the World Congress on Cancers of the Skin. This year, the 13th Congress was held from April 7-10 in Madrid, bringing together doctors from all over the world, including more than 120 speakers. The World Congress allows physicians a unique opportunity to interact with distinguished international faculty and to learn about breakthrough discoveries in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of all types of skin cancer.

The coming year promises many more vital and exciting developments in the prevention, detection, and treatment of skin cancer. We urge you to join our fight against the world’s most common cancer.