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Issue link: https://smarttan.epubxp.com/i/99474
feature: monetary motives MONETARY MOTIVES: The real story behind dermatology's 'safe' sunbeds When it comes to discussing the potential risks and benefits of UV light and sunbeds, new evidence suggests the profit-minded dermatology industry is talking out of both sides of its mouth and that the dollar sign matters more to its biggest lobbying groups than any true scientific discussion. When dermatology's lobbying groups talk about a sunbed in a tanning salon, they find no reason to be objective by acknowledging the full body of research pointing to a balanced benefit-risk portfolio. They put that sunbed in the same risk category as arsenic and tobacco – call it a carcinogen or a killer that has no benefits, should be avoided at all costs and should probably be banned. The reason: Dermatology groups still market "safe" UV sunbed sessions in their own offices to treat purely cosmetic skin conditions while simultaneously telling the world that any UV exposure not received in their offices is dangerous. But when they're talking about a sunbed in a dermatologist's office – a nearly identical piece of equipment used to treat purely cosmetic skin disorders like psoriasis – it's "one of the oldest and safest treatments for psoriasis" according to the National Psoriasis Foundation, and legislation should be introduced to make it less expensive and more accessible to the 7.5 million Americans with the cosmetic disease. Joe Levy Senior Vice PreSident Smart tan In other words, they are not acting as scientific guardians, protecting the public from indoor tanning UV exposure. They are acting as a competitor, promoting UV sunbeds of their own. It's an incredible contradiction. And here's how it breaks down: 39 SMART TAN MAGAZINE ❘ SmartTan.com It's the same sunbed and the same UV light. But when the dollars flow into dermatology's pockets, the spin about the safety of their UV gets dizzying.