The authorities said that the two chains, Portofino Spas and Total Tan, had violated state laws against deceptive business practices by making statements on their websites and in advertisements suggesting that indoor tanning not only was safe, but also could increase vitamin D production and reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
Many health agencies and experts have issued warnings about indoor tanning. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that indoor tanning can cause premature aging of the skin and several types of skin cancer, including the most lethal, melanoma. A large study last year estimated that indoor tanning contributed to 400,000 cases of skin cancer in the United States every year.
“Indoor tanning exposes users to two types of UV rays, UVA and UVB, which damage the skin and can lead to cancer,” the C.D.C. says on its website. The agency also warns that indoor tanning raises the risk of blinding eye diseases when eye protection is not used, and states that while vitamin D is important for good health, the safest way to obtain it is through food.
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NYT: Well Blog
