Concerns are being raised about a growing online campaign of misinformation regarding sunblock that Melanoma Canada fears could have devastating consequences.

Melanoma is a deadly form of skin cancer that according to the Canadian Cancer Society kills approximately 1,300 Canadians a year.

According to statistics released last year, more than 11,000 Canadians were estimated to be diagnosed with melanoma in 2024.

Falyn Katz, the CEO of Melanoma Canada, says they’re very concerned about some unqualified opinions being shared on social media platforms.

“They’re having an impact,” Katz told the Tim Powers’ Show on VOCM. “They have big followings and even though they have no credibility, people are listening.”

Some podcasters and social media influencers are suggesting that there are ingredients in sunblock that are hazardous. Katz says those assertions are dangerous.

“One blistering sunburn during someone’s youth can double their chances of being diagnosed with skin cancer later in life. Prolonged sun exposure is also linked to skin cancer. Skin cancers and melanoma are one of the few cancers that are preventable. Why would we not take the opportunity to try and prevent a potentially deadly skin cancer? We lose 3-4 people in Canada every single day to melanoma and I don’t think people realize that it can be deadly.”