WESTMINSTER

Tighter restrictions on the use of sunbeds and a ban on cigarette vending machines are being considered as part of a five-year cancer plan.

The strategy, to be announced by Alan Johnson, the Health Secretary, will target factors that contribute to cancer such as smoking, obesity and sunbathing, as well as providing an extra £130 million to cut waiting times for radiotherapy.

A review of rules for tanning salons will focus on the availability of coin-operated sunbeds, which are less easily overseen by staff, and on usage by under18s. Exposure to ultraviolet light is a factor in malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, and sunbed use is thought to be linked to the condition’s increase. Cases have doubled in 15 years, with more than 9,000 annual diagnoses and almost 2,000 deaths.

Cigarette machines are being targeted for action because they are easily used by children.

The Food Standards Agency has welcomed a study that found that a common chemical caused by frying, roasting or grilling can double the risk of cancer in women.

The study of 120,000 people found a direct link between consumption of acrylamide, found in many cooked foods, and ovarian and womb cancer.

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