Indoor tanning linked to DNA mutations and higher melanoma risk, study finds
Northwestern Medicine and UCSF study ties tanning bed use to widespread DNA mutations and nearly triple melanoma risk.
Indoor tanning devices are linked to a nearly threefold increase in melanoma risk, according to a study by Northwestern Medicine and the University of California, San Francisco. The research compared the medical records of about 3,000 sunbed users with 3,000 people who never tanned indoors. Melanoma was diagnosed in 5.1% of users and 2.1% of non-users.
The study's findings extend beyond skin cancer risk. Researchers said tanning beds appear to cause DNA mutations across a much larger portion of the skin than outdoor sun exposure typically damages. In tests of skin samples, those who used tanning beds had nearly twice as many mutations as non-users. Dr. Pedram Gerami, a professor of skin cancer research at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, said: "In outdoor sun exposure, maybe 20% of your skin gets the most damage. In tanning bed users, we saw those same dangerous mutations across almost the entire skin surface."
Sunless tanners were not immune from risk patterns: melanoma tended to occur on areas not usually exposed to sunlight, suggesting broader DNA damage from tanning devices.
The study also quantified broader risks. The risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma increased by 58% and basal cell carcinoma by 24% with visits to tanning salons over time, the researchers reported. The American Academy of Dermatology has warned that often young people prioritize cosmetic tans; one survey found about 20% of youths say being tan is more important than protecting themselves from skin cancer.
There are safer ways to achieve a bronzed look, including sunless products such as mists, drops, oils and sprays that do not involve UV exposure. Nonetheless, experts say there should be stronger warning campaigns about tanning bed use. Gerami added, "When you buy a pack of cigarettes, it says this may result in lung cancer. We should have a similar campaign with tanning bed usage." For anyone who frequented salons or spent time in the sun during youth, dermatologists recommend a total-body skin exam.
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