DeLauro Applauds FDA’s Final Standards for Tanning Lamps and Beds

WASHINGTON, DC—Congresswomen Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) released the following statement today on news the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing new standards and warning labels for tanning lamps. DeLauro, a former chair of the subcommittee that funds the FDA, has long fought to ensure consumers have information about the dangers of indoor tanning. More information on the final FDA standards can be found on their website.

“The FDA’s actions today are long overdue, but are a positive move that will save lives. I have long called on FDA to revise the warning labels so that they are easier for people to read and understand. Consumers should have access to all the information they need to make informed decisions and the new warning labels will ensure that happens. Almost five years ago an FDA advisory committee recommended reclassifying tanning beds to better reflect their risk. I am glad Commissioner Hamburg has finally implemented those recommendations.”

The National Cancer Institute estimates melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, will cause 76,000 cases and 8,000 American deaths this year. Research has found that the risk of melanoma increases by 75 percent when people start using tanning beds before age 35. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates deaths caused by melanoma have at least a $3.5 billion negative impact on America’s economy. Melanoma is the fifth most common type of new cancer diagnosis for American men and the seventh most common type for American women.

DeLauro has repeatedly called for FDA action on tanning beds, including:

· Calling for speedy implementation of a robust final rule.

· A bipartisan amendment that would have required the FDA to reclassify tanning beds

· Multiple letters to FDA Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg, urging the agency to appropriately label and classify tanning beds