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UV tanning advertisements in high school newspapers.
Scott Freeman1, Shayla Francis, Kristy Lundahl
1Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado at Denver Health Sciences Center, Aurora, USA.
Archives of Dermatology
|April 19, 2006
Summary
Tanning advertisements are frequently found in high school newspapers, targeting adolescents with discounts despite the known risks of UV radiation. Public health policies should prohibit this advertising to minors to prevent skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Dermatology
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Adolescent use of ultraviolet (UV) tanning parlors is increasing.
- The World Health Organization recommends against UV tanning device use for individuals under 18.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and nature of UV tanning advertisements in high school newspapers.
- To assess marketing strategies targeting adolescents for UV tanning services.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of tanning advertisements in public high school newspapers.
- Study period: 2001-2005.
- Geographic scope: 3 Colorado counties in the Denver metropolitan area.
Main Results:
- Advertisements from 18 tanning parlors appeared in 11 out of 23 schools.
- 40 advertisements were identified, with many offering discounts or unlimited tanning packages.
- Some ads mentioned non-UV treatments or parental consent for UV tanning.
Conclusions:
- UV radiation, a known carcinogen, is actively marketed to adolescents via high school newspapers.
- Policies prohibiting UV tanning advertising to minors are recommended for skin cancer prevention.