Despite the fact that UV radiation is the main risk factor for developing skin cancer, you can get a wellness allowance for sunbathing in a solarium.
The Melanoma Association now wants to see an immediate end to that.
– It is completely absurd that the state gives grants for something that is cancer-causing, says Anders Ekblom.
All forms of UV radiation belong to the highest risk category for cancer according to the World Health Organization WHO. Therefore, the Radiation Safety Authority advises against sunbathing in solariums.
For young people under 18, a ban has even been introduced. Despite that, the Swedish Tax Agency allows employees to use their wellness allowance for sunbathing.
Skin cancer is increasing rapidly
Skin cancer is one of the most rapidly increasing forms of cancer in Sweden. Every year, 60,000 Swedes are diagnosed.
The melanoma association consists of people who themselves have been affected by malignant melanoma, the most serious form from which most people die. The sun’s UV rays are the biggest culprit behind the rise and despite that, the Swedish Tax Agency accepts that employees receive tax-free wellness allowances for sunbathing in solariums.
Completely up the walls, says the Melanoma Association, which now wants to see a stop and that authorities and politicians take this issue seriously.
“Is a hell of a disease”
Anders Ekblom was diagnosed with skin cancer five years ago. A liver spot on his back had started to grow. The cancer cells spread to more places in the body, including lymph nodes, but after two years of immunotherapy, no metastases are visible today. But he will never be declared healthy.
– I have to learn to live with this, says Anders. But it’s a hell of a disease. It can come back anytime, anywhere.
He is now active on the Melanoma Association’s board and wants to help spread knowledge about skin cancer and tanning.