Tanning bed use and melanoma: Establishing risk and improving prevention interventions

• We present a concise review of current evidence on the risks of indoor tanning.
• We identify populations most at risk of negative outcomes from indoor tanning.
• We evaluate current legislation aimed to reduce the prevalence of indoor tanning.
• We argue for aggressive anti-tanning initiatives targeting specific high risk groups.
• We reaffirm the need for widespread public education on the health risks of indoor tanning.

PurposeExposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from indoor tanning devices is thought to cause melanoma and other negative health consequences. Despite these findings, the practice of indoor tanning in the United States remains prevalent. In this paper we aim to present a clear discussion of the relationship between indoor tanning and melanoma risk, and to identify potential strategies for effective melanoma prevention by addressing indoor tanning device use.Basic proceduresWe reviewed relevant literature on the risks of indoor tanning, current indoor tanning legislation, and trends in indoor tanning and melanoma incidence. Study was conducted at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA between the years of 2014 and 2015.Main findingsOur findings reaffirm the relationship between indoor tanning and melanoma risk, and suggest a widespread public misunderstanding of the negative effects of indoor tanning.Principal conclusionsThis review argues for an aggressive initiative to reduce indoor tanning in the United States, to design prevention efforts tailored towards specific high risk groups, and the need to better inform the public of the risks of indoor tanning.