From those who know

In a recent post I clarified the real risk of skin cancer but the low comparative risk of dying from it as compared to other cancers. 
That does not mean it isn't a real and increasing threat to young white women.  The significant rise in cases is likely due to tanning beds which persons did not have access to before the 1980s.

This article in the USA Today notes that 35% of girls who are aged 17, use tanning beds.  As we discussed in the last skin cancer post, many who use indoor beds also sunbathe. 

A few women who have been diagnosed with melanoma are speaking out about their experiences.  Social marketing research shows that serious messages about real health threats delivered by persons that are like the message target, can be persuasive.

The rate of 8700 deaths a year from this disease noted in the USA Today article is the same statistic noted on the American Cancer Society website.

[the main risk for skin cancer has been sunburns at early ages - one or two severe events can lead to the cancer - but it usually takes decades to develop. with this new threat,  it is important for parents to protect their children when they are young, but also when they are teenagers. if parents cannot prevent their children from going to tanning beds, and we can't outlaw them, then the next best thing may be national laws against tanning for persons under the age of 18]