As an update to a previous article, PCPC on NAS Report: 'Not Enough Data to Ban Sunscreens,' the Public Access to SunScreens (PASS) Coalition has released a statement of their gratitude to the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) for its thorough examination of scientific research regarding the impact of sunscreens on public health and the environment.
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"We applaud the NAS's objective and rigorous process and review of scientific information. The report makes clear the public health risks of reduced sunscreen use and the importance of using sunscreen [as a] clear, established science. The science does not indicate restrictions on sunscreen are warranted from an environmental perspective. And from a public health perspective, the science is clear that wearing sunscreens is one of the best tools to protect against melanomas and other forms of skin cancer.
Given the importance of sunscreen for public health and the lack of conclusive data about its impact on the environment, lawmakers must not create additional barriers for consumers to choose safe, effective and FDA-approved sunscreens to protect themselves against skin cancer and other damage from sun exposure. We encourage the EPA and partner agencies to promptly consider the NAS committee’s recommendations to pursue additional scientific study to fill the gaps in our knowledge on sunscreens in the marine environment. These conclusions will help policy makers, industry and consumers make informed decisions about sunscreens."