The Guardian view on calls to ban sunbeds: prevention in healthcare raises hard questions about risks | Editorial

The article discusses the calls by cancer experts to ban sunbeds in the UK, a move that has not yet been supported by the government or the public. The article highlights that while the existing ban on children using sunbeds is being flouted, and skin cancer rates are rising, the government has not shown any intention to implement a comprehensive ban, as seen in countries like Australia. The article suggests that a ban on commercial sunbeds, as implemented in Australia, would be the most cost-effective way to reduce melanoma cases, even if it includes compensation for affected businesses. The article also notes that young women in deprived parts of northern England are particularly at risk. The article concludes by inviting readers to submit their opinions on the issues raised in the article, indicating that the discussion around regulating unhealthy habits and the balance between personal freedom and public health is a complex one that raises hard questions about risks and prevention in healthcare.