Sunbeds: What you need to know about the risks to your health

• Sunbeds increase your risk of developing skin cancer
• HSE to host public webinar on the health risks of sunbed use
• Register here (zoom.us) to attend the free expert-led discussion

The HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) invites members of the public to attend a free live webinar (zoom.us) on Wednesday, 20 May, aimed at raising awareness of the significant health risks associated with sunbed use.

Titled “Sunbeds: What You Need to Know About the Risks to Your Health,” this informative session will bring together public health experts and professionals to explore the medical, legal and behavioural factors surrounding sunbed use in Ireland.

Sunbed use has been strongly linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma—the most serious form of the disease. Despite well-established dangers, sunbeds continue to be used, particularly among young people. This webinar seeks to address common misconceptions, provide evidence-based information, and empower individuals to make safer choices.

Speaking at the webinar, Selene Daly Tarpey, Nurse Tutor HSE Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Education Sligo, Leitrim, West Cavan, HSE, warns: “There is clear and compelling evidence that sunbed use increases the risk of skin cancer. This webinar is an opportunity for the public to better understand these risks and explore healthier alternatives. It is important to consider safer alternatives and to prioritise long-term skin health over temporary tanning.”

Participants will hear from a panel of experts on a wide range of topics, including:

• The proven health risks of sunbed use, including links to melanoma and other skin cancers
• Prevention strategies and safer alternatives to achieve a healthy appearance without UV exposure
• An overview of the Public Health (Sunbeds) Act 2014, which regulates sunbed use in Ireland
• The role of the HSE National Environmental Health Service in enforcing sunbed legislation
• The psychology of sunbed use, including dependency behaviours such as ‘tanorexia’.

This comprehensive session is designed to address not only the physical health implications but also the social and behavioural drivers behind sunbed use.

The HSE NCCP coordinates delivery of the National Skin Cancer Prevention Plan 2023-2026 (gov.ie) which includes developing and delivering an annual ‘Dangers of Sunbeds Awareness Campaign’ in collaboration with Healthy Ireland. The campaign runs all year round and aims to raise awareness that sunbeds emit UV radiation and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. This risk can be avoided by not using sunbeds. There is no such thing as a healthy suntan.

Dr Breeda Neville, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, HSE NCCP adds: “As part of the National Skin Cancer Prevention Plan we are continuously identifying and pursuing opportunities to further raise awareness of the risk of sunbed use. We hope this webinar will educate community groups and organisations who work with sunbed users to understand the risks associated with sunbed use, debunk myths relating to sunbeds and raise awareness of the importance of sun protection and skin cancer prevention.”

The webinar is open to all members of the public, as well as parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in learning more about skin cancer prevention and sun safety.

The webinar is free of charge, but advance registration is required. Register online to secure your place.

Find out more about reducing your risk of skin cancer.