Although the use of lasers in medicine is increasing, many applications are experimental and may not suit the treatment of any condition from which you might be suffering.

It is fair to say that lasers are at their best in medicine when no other treatment is available. Good examples of such procedures are laser surgery to the back of the eye, and laser treatment of birthmarks and tattoos

Members of the British Medical Laser Association are engaged in scientific research aimed at helping the public by determining which conditions do and which conditions do not respond to laser treatment in a way which is better than standard treatment.

Information posted on these pages, and in the pages of the journal "Lasers in Medical Science', is primarily aimed at physicians and scientists involved in such research.

If you have a condition which you think might benefit from laser treatment, the best course of action is to visit your general practitioner who will be able to refer you to a local specialist who will know whether or not laser therapy will benefit you.

It is especially important not to respond to advertisements for laser treatment seen in the press, without first consulting your physician.