Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
The epidemiology of sunburn in the US population in 2003
Tamu T Brown1, Rhonda D Quain, Andrea B Troxel
1University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Background:
Sunburn is a major preventable risk factor for skin cancer.
Objective:
We investigated risk factors for sunburn in the United States based on the 2003 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
Design And Methods:
A random sample of 207,776 respondents provided data for the population-based survey. The main outcome measure was any report of sunburn within the previous 12 months.
Results:
Overall, 39% of respondents had at least one sunburn. The strongest factors associated with sunburn were age and socioeconomic factors. Sunburn prevalence was greatest in respondents 18 to 24 years old (61%). This group was more likely to have a sunburn than respondents 45 to 54 years of age (odds ratio [OR] = 2.76). Higher income and higher levels of education were positively associated with sunburn (OR 1.67 and 1.63, respectively). Individuals reporting recent binge drinking had a higher prevalence of sunburn (OR = 1.33).
Limitations:
The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System does not include data on skin type or sun protection behavior; therefore the impact of these factors was not assessed.
Conclusion:
Sunburn occurs at a very high rate in the United States.
Related Concept Videos
Mutations
Chromosomal Alterations Are Large-Scale Mutations
While point mutations are changes in a single nucleotide in...
Acne Infection
Burn Injuries
The damage results in the death of skin cells, which can lead to a massive loss of fluid. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and renal and circulatory failure follow, which can be fatal. Burn patients are treated with intravenous fluids to offset...
Therapeutic Index
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...

