A survey of 14 to 16 year olds as to their attitude toward and use of sunbeds

Abstract

Objective Sunbeds pose a potential risk to health. Although not recommended for children under 16 years of age they are used by this age group. The purpose of this study was to assess the awareness of suntanning guidelines, the use of sunbeds and the attitude towards tanning in children aged between 14 and 16 years.

Design and method 499 pupils aged 14 to 16 years responded to a questionnaire survey in two schools in a mixed urban part of Merseyside.

Results Overall, sunbeds had been used by 43 per cent of pupils. Girls had used them much more than boys with use increasing by age for both sexes. Overall, 65 per cent said they were aware of guidelines. About half thought that guidelines advising people how often to use a sunbed were a good thing. One in 10 of those using a sunbed also said they had had problems with their eyes or skin. Most boy and girl users thought using sunbeds made them look healthy, made them more attractive and confident, that they created a base tan before a holiday and that they were a good treatment for spots.

Conclusion There is considerable awareness of sunbed guidelines; however, sunbed use in the under 16 year age group remains high. This poses a public health issue and better education and enforcement strategies are required.