In recognition of National UV Safety Month, the Connecticut State Medical Society and US Representative Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) hosted a press conference today supporting Rep. DeLauro's call for a nationwide ban on the use of tanning beds by minors.

CSMS President Robert Russo, MD welcomed Rep. DeLauro, and noted the importance of her support on this and other public health issues. CT Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery President Donna Aiudi, MD spoke about the rising incidence of melanoma and other skin cancers, particularly in younger people. Dr. Aiudi, a CSMS member, discussed the use of UV-A radiation in tanning booths, the number of adolescent females who use tanning booths, and the myth that tanning booths "help" provide Vitamin D.

Drs. Russo and Aiudi were joined by CT Department of Public Health Director of Communications William Gerrish, who provided information about Connecticut's melanoma rates and DPH sun safety public awareness efforts. In Connecticut, about 900 cases of malignant melanoma are diagnosed each year and about 100 people die from the disease. On average, there are five new cases of malignant melanoma diagnosed in Connecticut residents under age 20 each year.

View Rep. DeLauro's press release here.

L-R: William Gerrish, CT DPH; Donna Aiudi, MD; US Rep. Rosa DeLauro; Robert Russo, MD