PD12 Early tanners, higher risk: when sunbed use becomes the norm in Scotland

Abstract

Ultraviolet radiation exposure from artificial tanning devices is strongly associated with an increased skin cancer risk. Current evidence suggests that individuals who use a sunbed, at least once, before the age of 35 years are up to 75% more likely to develop melanoma compared with those who have never used a sunbed. Even with multiple public health campaigns and attempts to increase awareness about the dangers of sunbeds, numerous patient groups continue to frequently use sunbeds. Inconsistent local licensing limits oversight of sunbed provision, while social media trends have amplified tanning culture, encouraging increased use among young people despite significant risks. This project explores patterns of sunbed use and examines the relationship between age at first use, frequency and demographic factors. In total, 146 consecutive patients attending the dermatology outpatient department were asked about previous sunbed use, including age at first use and frequency. Demographic information (age, gender, ethnicity and country of birth) was also recorded. Overall, 51% of patients reported previous sunbed use. Among these individuals, early exposure was highly prevalent: 93% had first used a sunbed before the age of 35 years. The majority of sunbed users were UK born (94%) and identified as either White Scottish, White British, Polish or Other White ethnic group. Sunbed use was more common among women, with 72% of users being female and 28% male. Nearly half of all patients who had used sunbeds (47%) reported using them frequently, showing a pattern of high-risk exposure. Early sunbed exposure was highly prevalent within this cohort, with most individuals beginning at a young age. These findings highlight the high prevalence of early sunbed exposure in this cohort and reinforce the need for targeted public health messaging to reduce associated skin cancer risks.