Survey Finds Many Young Adults Believe Dangerous Myths About Sun Protection, Skin Cancer Prevention

A new national survey found that more than 30% of Americans believe that having a tan makes people look better and healthier, a dangerous beauty standard to aim for given the risks of skin cancer.

“There is no such thing as a healthy tan, as it’s really just a visual manifestation of damage to the skin,” said Rajesh Nair, MD, an oncology surgeon at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute, via a press release. “But we’re fighting against a perceived positive image and health benefits of something that actually has a totally opposite reality, which is that suntanned skin represents an increased risk of a deadly disease.”

The survey, conducted by Ipsos, also found that young adults are likely to believe misinformation about sun protection that may discourage them from utilizing protective measures. Notably, the survey showed that about 1 in 7 (14%) adults under 35 think daily sunscreen use is more harmful to the skin than direct sun exposure, and nearly a quarter (23%) believe drinking water and staying hydrated prevents a sunburn.

“Unfortunately, we’re seeing skin cancer more and more in patients of a young age. And because it’s something that’s often not on their radar, it tends to be diagnosed in more advanced stages,” Dr. Nair said. “We don’t want to discourage people from being outside and being active because there are so many health benefits to that, but it’s also important to know that sun protection can be lifesaving, and the only effective way of protecting yourself is limiting the effects of UV radiation on the skin.”