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A population-based survey on tanning bed use in Germany
Franziska U Börner1, Holger Schütz, Peter Wiedemann
1Institute of Neurosciences and Medicine, INM-8: Ethics in the Neurosciences, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany. f.boerner@fz-juelich.de
BMC Dermatology
|July 22, 2009
Summary
Tanning bed use is common in Germany, with 28% of the population having used them. Misconceptions about the health benefits of artificial UV radiation are prevalent, especially among frequent users.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The European suntanning industry has expanded due to the social desirability of tanned skin.
- Concerns exist regarding the public health implications of artificial tanning.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate tanning bed usage patterns in Germany.
- Assess UV radiation risk perception and tanning beliefs among the German population.
Main Methods:
- A representative telephone survey was conducted in 2007.
- 1501 German residents aged 14 and older participated.
Main Results:
- 28% of Germans have used tanning beds; 11% are high-frequency users (>10 times/year).
- Frequent tanning bed use is common among individuals aged 18-44 and young women (<18).
- Tanning bed use correlates with beliefs about appearance, lifestyle, and the health benefits of tanned skin.
Conclusions:
- Tanning bed use is widespread in Germany, linked to appearance and perceived health benefits.
- Misconceptions about artificial UV radiation's effects, particularly among high-frequency users, are a concern.
- Effective risk communication about artificial UV dangers faces challenges due to these beliefs.
