Numerous studies have established a link between indoor tanning bed use and increased risk for skin cancer. In fact, those who begin using tanning beds before the age of 35 increase their risk for melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, by 75%. Still, nearly 60% of college students admit to using a tanning bed in their lifetime.

Cost is a major barrier that can limit the college population from purchasing tanning services. A previous study by Boyers et al found that 18 of 96 major eastern and southern universities in the U.S. had university-sponsored debit cards that were affiliated with indoor tanning beds. These cards are linked to identification cards and are often loaded with money from parents. Ultimately, they make it easier for students to not only pay for living expenses, but also for tanning services.

More recently, the Boyers et al study was expandedto include colleges nationally in the western parts of the U.S. as well internationally in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Canada, and the U.K. Three additional universities, including the University of Arizona, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Prescott Campus, and the University of Denver, were identified as having tanning salon affiliations in the U.S. None of the international colleges were found to issue university-sponsored debit cards.

While it is known fact that ultraviolet radiation from tanning beds causes skin cancer, universities continue to be affiliated with tanning salonsacross the country. Actions must be taken now to terminate these ties and protect the nation’s young population.

Jessica S. Mounessa

Publication

News reports: update on buying indoor UV tanning with university debit cards.
Goff KL, Karimkhani C, Boyers LN, Hernandez MD, Pederson H, Royer EL, Dellavalle RP.
Dermatol Online J. 2014 Dec 13

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