Tanning beds linked to DNA changes and higher melanoma risk, study finds

Indoor tanning devices are linked to a higher risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, in a large study from Northwestern Medicine and the University of California, San Francisco. The researchers reviewed medical records of 3,000 sunbed users and 3,000 people with no history of indoor tanning, finding melanoma diagnosed in 5.1% of users versus 2.1% of non-users, a near threefold increase in risk. Melanoma accounts for more than 100,000 cases nationwide each year and about 11,000 deaths.

Beyond skin cancer risk, the study found evidence of DNA damage that extends beyond sun-exposed areas. The researchers reported that tanning bed users showed mutations across a broad swath of the skin, including regions usually protected from sunlight, such as the lower back. In testing skin samples, those who used tanning beds had nearly twice as many skin cell mutations as non-users, suggesting that UV exposure in tanning devices may cause more widespread genetic changes than outdoor sun exposure. In outdoor sun exposure, roughly 20% of the skin carries the most damage, whereas tanning bed users showed dangerous mutations nearly across the entire surface.

Young people appear to be embracing tanning trends despite warnings. The American Academy of Dermatology has noted about 20% of youths say being tan matters more than protecting themselves from skin cancer. In addition to melanoma, cumulative indoor tanning increases the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancers: squamous cell carcinoma risk rises about 58% and basal cell carcinoma about 24% with visits to tanning salons. Health experts emphasize there are safer alternatives, including sunless tanning products such as mists, drops, oils and sprays that provide a bronzed look without UV exposure.

Experts say stronger warnings are needed. Pedram Gerami, a professor of skin cancer research at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and one of the study’s authors, says there should be clearer risk messaging about indoor tanning, potentially modeled on cigarette warnings. He notes that the DNA-level damage observed in tanning bed users calls for greater public health emphasis on the risks. And dermatologists say a total-body skin exam is highly recommended for people who have used tanning beds, to catch any early signs of skin cancer.

With indoor tanning on the rise, researchers urge heightened warnings and more robust public education about the harms of tanning devices. For individuals who frequented salons or pursued a sun-kissed look in the past, a dermatologist-led total-body skin examination remains a prudent step toward early detection and prevention.