Tanning beds being widely used despite cancer warnings

Scientist, researchers and medical experts have recently established credible links between tanning beds, booths and other such implements causing high rates of Melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma. Despite publicly issuing warnings against their use these implements used for bestowing artificial tans are being widely used specially by young women. The most shocking aspect is that these young women claimed being aware of the potential health risks even then chose to opt for indoor tanning and continued to use it. This fact was made public by University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The study, co-authored by UNC Lineberger members Seth M. Noar, PhD, of the UNC School of Journalism and Mass Communication, and Nancy Thomas, MD, of the UNC School of Medicine had the objective of comprehending the drive in young people to opt for tanning bed and how to construct ways of discouraging it and deterring its use. The study took into account people who they deemed were more likely to use tanning beds – members of college sororities. 

"We reached out to this population not only because we thought they might be tanning bed users, but also because young people are at the greatest risk of developing skin cancer as a result of tanning indoors," declared Noar. Bafflingly more than 27 million people have used or purchased tanning beds last year. These are the people most at risk of developing various skin problems and ailments, out of which majority are young people aged below 35. Considering the high percentage of younger females who use tanning beds the need of the hour is to impart knowledge about their adverse and potentially lethal effects. This can done by launching comprehensive school campaigns targeting the younger audience. 

The majority of young females interviewed cited improvement in looks as their reason for using tanning beds and the rest claimed the convenience of just stepping in a tanning parlor and getting a tan was important for them. "We found that appearance is important, but we found that other factors to be equally or even more important. For instance, many of these young women reported really enjoying the experience of tanning indoors. They reported that it reduces stress and is relaxing to them. In the study, we called this factor 'mood enhancement'" said Noar.