The results of a new study reported today in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention are contradictory.

A study out just two weeks ago from the MD Anderson Cancer Center found that UVA light does not cause melanoma. Another study out this week claims that most sunscreens could actually promote the growth of skin cancers because they contain Vitamin A. A study from a research affiliate of the Harvard medical school found that tanning offers protection against melanomas. And, a number of other studies and experts also tout the cancer-fighting benefits of Vitamin D, which is produced by the skin with moderate UV exposure.

So clearly, lots of studies are reaching far different conclusions. These other findings may not be promoted to the media as actively as those who may have a specific agenda, but they show that science is still wrestling with this issue and there’s certainly still more to learn.

We welcome a more complete body of research that will allow us to advise our customers how to achieve their goals without unnecessary risk of over exposure. As for the study published in the AACR journal, the researchers averaged a group of people with the highest risk of melanoma (very fair skin and those with moles) with the general population and then concluded the risk applies to everyone. But it doesn't.

Independent scientists have reviewed this study and noted that when you remove the high-risk groups, there may be a reduced risk for tanning bed users.

When you look at the greatest risk factors identified in this study, tanning isn’t even one of the top factors noted. The number of moles a subject had, how fair their skin was and the color of their hair were all stronger indicators of their risk of melanoma. And even if you were to accept their risk factors, their study says the risk is about 1 in 5,000 that someone might develop a melanoma. Other scientists believe the risk actually is far lower than that.

When reputable researchers are coming to vastly different conclusions, it’s clear that a lot more research is needed. As various legislative bodies consider this issue, the science on both sides of the question needs to be weighed before consideration is given to any sweeping policy changes. Any potential regulation that would affect millions of people who have tanned for years with no ill effects needs to consider all of the risk factors in a completely unbiased manner.