Big Burn teaches teens about indoor tanning dangers

EDMONTON, March 28, 2012 /CNW/ - Media are invited to a graduation-themed event to learn more about a provincial campaign to teach teens about the deadly risks and ugly truths of indoor tanning.

Thousands of Edmonton high school pupils have been invited to Kingsway Mall tomorrow to meet with health experts and learn how to achieve a "glow without the burn" through makeup and skin protection. Participants will get a glimpse of their future through technology that reveals existing damage to their skin from UV rays.

A fun, interactive website is also being launched that exposes some of the myths around indoor tanning and provides factual information about the many health dangers associated with sun beds. 

Media will have the chance to speak with teens attending the event. Also on site will be Dr. Chris Sikora, Alberta Health Services Medical Officer of Health - Edmonton Zone, Canadian Cancer Society advocacy spokesperson Sarah Hawkins, Alberta Society of Melanoma spokesperson Tanny Nadon and two cancer survivors. Off-site interviews can be arranged with Edmonton dermatologist Dr. Marius Sapijaszko.

Media availability details:

DATE:	Wednesday, March 28, 2012
TIME:	12 p.m.
LOCATION:	Kingsway Mall (Centre Court on Main Level) Cnr 109 St. N.W. and Kingsway Avenue N.W., Edmonton

About Indoor Tanning is Out
The Indoor Tanning is Out coalition is advocating for strong legislation that will protect Albertans under the age of 18 from the risks of artificial tanning. The coalition consists of a broad range of health experts from organizations including the Canadian Dermatology Association, Canadian Cancer Society, Alberta Society of Dermatologists, and the Alberta Public Health Association, among others. Alberta Health Services is supporting the coalition's efforts to raise awareness and educate Albertans about the deadly risks of artificial tanning. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/IndoorTanningIsOut.

To arrange an interview or for more information, please contact:

Deanna Kraus, [phone]
Canadian Cancer Society, Alberta/NWT Division
[email protected]