Indoor Tanning is Not as Safe as You Think. In Fact, It's To...( Indoor Tanning Dangers Highlighted...),Health

Indoor Tanning Dangers Highlighted in New Public Service Advertisement

Campaign

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., May 5 /PRNewswire/ -- At age 17, all Meghan Rothschild and Brittany Lietz wanted was a dark tan. They thought it made them look beautiful. But both had no idea that in just three years they would be battling melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Now Meghan, 24, of Wilbraham, Mass., and Brittany, 23, of Annapolis, Md., are speaking out about their experiences. They are sharing their stories in the American Academy of Dermatology's (Academy) new public service advertisement (PSA) campaign which was launched today. The campaign is designed to communicate the risks of indoor tanning to women ranging from those in high school to those in their mid 20s.

"Indoor tanning before the age of 35 has been associated with a significant increase in the risk of melanoma. Yet on an average day, more than one million Americans tan in tanning salons," said Arielle N.B. Kauvar, MD, FAAD, dermatologist and chair of the Academy's Council on Communications. "Research shows 70 percent of indoor tanners are female, primarily 16 to 29 years old -- the age group that's particularly at risk for developing skin cancer. We especially hope women who are using or considering using tanning salons will think twice about partaking in this risky behavior."

Research also shows the dangerous results of indoor tanning. Melanoma is increasing faster in females 15-29 years old than males in the same age group. And in females 15-29, the torso is the most common location for developing melanoma, which may be due to high-risk tanning behaviors.

"Since one American dies of melanoma about every hour, it's imperative that young people avoid deliberately seeking a tan," said C. William Hanke, MD, MPH, FAAD, president of the Academy. "The Academy is committed toward reaching young women with this potentially life-saving message."

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