FDA to discuss stricter guidelines about Tanning Beds due to Skin Cancer

On March 25, 2010, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will meet to discuss the possible reclassification of UV-emitting tanning beds and lamps. Currently, tanning beds and lamps are Class I medical devices, putting them in the same category as elastic bandages and tongue depressors. But UV radiation from tanning machines is a proven human carcinogen (cancer-causing agent), and the chief cause of skin cancer. Reclassification by the FDA would permit more oversight and stringent regulation.

As a survivor of Malignant Melanoma who spent many years in tanning beds, I have joined the Skin Cancer Foundation in this important fight against tanning beds. I was told by the tanning bed salons that laying in the bed would provide a "safer" tan since I would "not be exposed to the dangerous rays". I was encouraged to get my daily "fix" over many years, because tanned bodies look healthier, right?

On Monday, I submitted my personal experience to the FDA and am hopeful I will be chosen to speak on the dangers of tanning beds in front of the panel at the end of the month.

You can also help in this fight by signing an important petition to the FDA at the following site:

http://support.skincancer.org/site/PageServer?pagename=FDA_Dec_2009_Petition

Thank you for your efforts on getting tanning beds reclassified by the FDA.

Source: The Skin Cancer Foundation

Successful Rockport Health Fair Uncovers Skin Cancers

The Cherish Your Skin Health Fair and Skin Cancer Screening was a fantastic success!

Thanks to over 20 Coastal Area Health-related businesses which participated on the Tropical Christmas Weekend.

Over 300 people attended and received important health screenings and information. The event included an American Academy of Dermatology sponsored skin cancer screening by volunteer physicians and nurse practitioners.

Importantly, 75 people were screened with 5 needing immediate referral for surgery or biopsy. Many thanks to AAD member and volunteer, Dr. Suneel Chilukuri, from Bellaire Dermatology Associates, who drove from Houston in the unexpected icy snow. His dedication to skin cancer awareness and prevention through philanthropic outreach is greatly appreciated.

The partnership with Nurse Practitioner, Margaret Von Heuvel and the Rockport Rejuvenative Clinic was vital to the overall success of the Health Fair and Screening. Many thanks to Margaret, Darlene and Alex! Thanks are also in order for Dr. Michael Lovoi, Internist from Corpus Christi, who took time out of his busy schedule to screen patients for skin cancer!
We appreciate the following businesses and couldn't have done it without you!:

Rockport Rejuvenative Clinic, CYSO, Avon, MILA by Lifemax, Astrum Hearing By Sears, Regency Nursing Homes, AIM Hospice, Adult Day Care Center, GSM Insurors, Hypnosis for a Positive Change, Sea Crest Home Health, Chocolates and AirFlight, Penninsula Physical Therapy, and Radiology Associates.
Thanks to the GREAT businesses who donated food and drinks: Arandas Mexican Grille, The Daily Grind, Dairy Queen, M&M MedSpa, Rockport Bakery, & Vie's Ocean Nails.

A special thank you to Liz Welch who coordinated yummy baked good donated by our lovely neighbors at Heron's Roost!

Many thanks to our special friend and Chauffeur, Hill Hooks, who, along with Frosty The Snowman, escorted Mrs. Rockport-Fulton during the Lighted Night Parade in an illuminated Salsa Red VW Bug. Also, thank you to our MC and friend who donated his talents and holiday music at the Health Fair, Bill Dammann, The Ramblin' Man!

We are excited to continue the CYSO and RRC community awareness events in 2010 with our first Health Fair to include emphasis on Diabetes, as well as Skin Cancer. Look for dates to come soon in The Rockport Pilot.

Happy Holidays and Hugs to ALL! You made our efforts worthwhile!

Cherish Your Skin Website Launch!

We are excited to announce the Cherish Your Skin Organization website, http://www.cherishyourskin.org/ went LIVE today! The Mission of CYSO is to raise awareness about Skin Cancer and stress Skin Cancer Prevention. We will do so in three important ways: Educate through informational forums and web links, Donate to various Skin Cancer foundations through organizational fundraising efforts, and Support Skin Cancer patients through outreach programs. As a mother, wife, daughter and Skin Cancer Survivor of Malignant Melanoma, I am committed to leading the way in this important fight against Skin Cancer.