STUDY: YOUNG PEOPLE TAN DESPITE CANCER RISK
Tanning remains a popular practice among many millennials and young people despite warnings about the link between excess sun exposure and skin cancer, finds a new study. Oregon State University-Cascades researchers surveyed 250 college students at a U.S. university.
Most participants were ages 18 to 23, and all were asked 11 sun-safety questions. On average, participants got about half the answers wrong.
Also, 70 percent said they tanned, and about 33 percent said tanning was important. More than a third said tanning made them feel better, and 40 percent said it boosted their confidence.
Researchers found those struggling with self-esteem or who displayed high levels of narcissism were more likely to be addicted to tanning.
Lead study author Amy Watson says, "We need to change the meaning of tan skin from being a 'healthy glow' to the reality that it is damaged skin. Once consumers view tanned skin as damaged skin, they will begin to seek preventative methods."
(Pulse Networks)