Injury Prevention and Safety

Tanning Beds Increase Risk for Early Skin Cancer

In recent years, it appears that many young people don't see the need for protection of their skin. Teenagers are flocking to tanning beds in record numbers, despite repeated cancer warnings from physicians. Unfortunately, this is resulting in younger and younger people being diagnosed with melanoma. Before, those seeking treatment for melanoma were usually in their 40s - now doctors are seeing 15-year-olds with this deadliest form of skin cancer.

The risk of developing cancer typically increases with age. However, doctors cite overuse of tanning beds as a possible cause of more teens and young adults developing melanoma. With an average of 2 million uses of tanning beds every day, doctors are concerned about the potential harmful effect on teens.

Part of the problem is that people don't realize how powerful tanning bed bulbs really are. Ultraviolet or UV radiation from a tanning bed is more intense than direct sun rays on the equator, and prolonged exposure to UV rays is thought to cause melanoma.

Not everyone has the same risk of developing melanoma, however. The American Cancer Society reports that men have a higher skin cancer rate than women. People with fair skin, red hair, or freckles also have an increased risk for developing skin cancer. Moles, a family history of skin cancer, and a weakened immune system are additional factors to consider when assessing your risk for skin cancer.

To reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, here are some suggestions:

Limit or avoid sun exposure during the peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Cover skin with clothing or shade.
Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15.
Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps.

To hear one woman's battle with melanoma and more information on the harmful effects of tanning beds, watch this video: Tanning, Sun Exposure Increase Risk for Early Skin Cancer

This article is based on information provided by The Ohio State University Medical Center Media Relations Office and was adapted for use on NetWellness with permission, 2008.

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Last Reviewed: Apr 11, 2008

Kari Kendra, MD
Assistant Professor
Division of Hematology and Oncology
Department of Internal Medicine
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University