Sunbeds will soon become adult-only after the Governments attempt to lower skin cancer rates.

The Government announced on Friday April 5 it will be amending the Health Act 1956 later this year to prohibit access to commercial sunbeds for people under 18-years-old.

Associate Health Minister Jo Goodhew says skin cancer is a serious and significant issue in New Zealand.

'New Zealand and Australia have the highest melanoma incidence rates in the world – over 300 people die of melanoma in New Zealand each year.

'This Government is committed to reducing the rates of skin cancer in New Zealand and is adopting key parts of

Dr Paul Hutchison's private members bill to better regulate commercial sunbed use.”

Jo says according to the World Health Organization the risk of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, increases by 75 per cent when sunbeds are used before a person turns 30.

'Introducing an age restriction for commercial sunbeds is one of five key areas the government is investing in to help prevent New Zealanders getting skin cancer, and to provide faster treatment for people with melanoma.”

The four other areas are: Promoting sun safety education and awareness, improved resources and training for health professionals; faster cancer treatment initiatives, including developing a national melanoma tumour standard, increased access to skin lesion removal, including s

upporting GPs to remove more non-complex skin lesions.