Researchers say people who use sunbeds may become addicted to the tanning effects.
A US study found that a third of people who use sunbeds may become addicted. They were also more likely to suffer from anxiety and be more prone to alcohol and drug use.
The study, published in the Archives of Dermatology, looked at 421 college students, 229 of whom said they used sunbeds or sun lamps.
Depending on the definition used, 30-39 per cent of the students were classed as being addicted.
In the UK, a bill to ban sunbeds for under 18s was recently passed in the House of Lords. Scotland has already put legislation in place to restrict the use of sunbeds to adults, Wales has proposed a similar move and Northern Ireland is planning a consultation on the issue.
Sarah Woolnough, head of policy at Cancer Research UK, said the US findings on addiction to indoor tanning highlighted the importance of the ban on sunbed use by under 18s.
“It is also vital that the new government ensures that all sunbed salons are staffed and that information is provided warning users of the health risks.”
This article first appeared in issue 11 of benhealth, the magazine for Benenden Healthcare members.
