Why Your Daughter May Be At Higher Risk For Developing Skin Cancer

If your daughter (or son) is lobbying for a tanning salon visit to start or finish up a summer tan, you may soon have more ammunition to argue against it. Health experts are researching specific strategies to discourage tanning bed use among young people, according to a study recently published in JAMA Dermatology.

People younger than 35 are most at risk for developing skin cancer as a result of using tanning beds, say the study’s authors at the University of North Carolina, who surveyed members of college sororities. Appearance is one reason young adults visit tanning salons, in addition to stress reduction and relaxation.

Next, the researchers plan to work with UNC graduate students to develop age-appropriate messages about the dangers of tanning.