Tanning behaviour among young frequent tanners is related to attitudes and not lack of knowledge about the dangers

Abstract

Objective To examine the importance of tanning among students in relation to attitudes and knowledge regarding skin cancer prevention. Design A cross-sectional survey. Setting College students at a major Midwestern university Methods Students were recruited to complete a self-administered questionnaire that included information on sun-sensitivity, knowledge and tanning attitudes and behaviors. Survey sampling statistical techniques that account for clustering among the 163 students recruited were used. Results We found a high level of skin cancer prevention knowledge; however knowledge was not related to a reduction in the importance of tanning. In many cases, higher levels of knowledge corresponded to a greater emphasis on the importance of tanning. Sunscreen use was low among this population. Those who placed an importance on tanning more often checked that they believed that “sunless tanning creams are safer than the sun”. Conclusions This population’s belief that they look healthier and feel better with a tan strongly influences the desire to tan. Therefore, future cancer information campaigns or other prevention efforts should directly address the desire to tan by encouraging the use of sunless tanning products as an alternative method of tanning.

Knowledge and attitudes of UK university students in relation to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure and their sun-related behaviours: a qualitative study

“…This is widely reported in western literature among all ages of avid tanners,19 44–47 but this study demonstrates its presence also in those without a preference for tanning. Paradoxically, health risks associated with usage of low factor sun protection were known, but taken as informed ones to enable tanning, while sunbeds were avoided.…”

“…12 16 19 34 Degree-related UVR knowledge, particularly those studying medicine, also appeared of little influence; similarly found among Swedish university students 35. While all participants acknowledged the importance of sun protection, primarily sunscreen, this was frequently limited to being abroad, causing complacency in England.…”

“…(Amy, 20) Attitudes towards tanning Self-image For all participants with a preference for tanning, this was rooted in self-image. A tan offered aesthetic enhancements generally and specifically: looking slimmer, covering scars, improving skin complexion and having a 'healthy glow' (Holly, 19). This resulted in psycho-sociological benefits from a tan including improved social confidence and a sense of health and well-being:…”

“…Caveats to this reflected concerns on the concept of 'orange' (Harriet, 20) or 'patchy' (Rebecca, 19) results gained from fake tanning products limiting their authenticity over sun or sunbed achieved colour. Clear associations were also made about a tan; it served as a positive reminder of leisure, holidays and health.…”

Influences of Parental Attachment and Life Satisfaction on Social Tanning Behaviors among College Students

“…Social tanning has been identified as a source of tanning motive because of friends' perceptions; as a result, individuals may feel that a tan is important in making one attractive (Dennis, Lowe, & Snetselaar, 2009). Previous research on indoor-tanning behaviors has revealed that parents' use of tanning devices is a significant predictor of children's tanning device usage (Cokkinides & Weinstock, 2003).…”