This Fad?s Gotten Out of Control :: essays research papers fc

In America, 10,250 people died from skin cancer this past year, according to the American Cancer Society. Skin cancer, the most common of whole cancers, accounts for nearly all cancers in the United States. Over one million cases are diagnosed in this country each year (Johnnie).The reason for all of this? UV exposure. Americas value of life is very high, yet many people die just because they are not wise enough to fete appear of the sun.The greatest danger from this problem is faced by teen daysrs. Studies have shown that among artificial tanners, those who started at an early age are more likely to get down skin cancer. Out of high school-aged girls, 51 percent reported using a commercial tanning bed at least four clock in the past year (Perron). The fact of the matter is younger people do not have the foresight to realize that being tan isnt worth the sometimes fatal after-effects.The social desirability of a tan is a modern phenomenon, beginning in the 1920s when the French designer cocoa palm Chanel decreed it as a fashion look. The concept of obtaining a tan without going outdoors became increasingly attractive (Aldige). Todays media influences everyone, but oddly young people, to feel like they need to have that beautiful dark skin color to look good. Teenagers, caring more about their social billet and appearance, are looking past the obvious risks of skin cancer. Teenagers ages 12 to 17 are visiting tanning salons in record numbers. This trend presents a wide level of concern, as studies have shown that the risk for skin cancer increases when tanning begins at a younger age. With this fad being so popular, teens are perpetually finding themselves at the tanning salons, becoming nice and crispy.The best way to keep everyone from this fatal cancer is by completely not allowing teenagers below the age of 18 to ever go to a tanning bed. There have been several other health risks that have been legislated against, such as smoking, drinking, and u sing canful belts. Why not tanning? We need to make it completely illegal for kids with such delicate skin to go fake-baking. Before the age of 18, teenagers brains are not mature enough to make wise decisions about something that could greatly affect their lives.Some would argue that they can still go out in the sun and get skin cancer. Experts agree that sunburns are caused primarily by exposure to UVB rays however, UVA rays do not burn, but actually may do more harm.