Prevalence and correlates of indoor tanning among US adults

Background

Little is known about the prevalence of indoor tanning among the US general adult population.

Objectives

This study sought to: (1) describe the prevalence of indoor tanning throughout adulthood; (2) identify demographic and psychosocial correlates of indoor tanning; and (3) determine whether these correlates vary by age group.

Methods

This study used data from the 2005 National Health Interview Survey, an annual health survey of the US adult population.

Results

Indoor tanning rates were higher among individuals who were young, white, and female. Rates of indoor tanning in the last year varied from 20.4% for those aged 18 to 29 years to 7.8% for those aged 65 years and older. A variety of demographic, health, and behavioral health risk factors correlated with indoor tanning.

Limitations

The study design was cross-sectional and all data were self-reported.

Conclusions

Health care providers should address indoor tanning as a health risk factor across the lifespan.

Abbreviations used: BMI, body mass index, HINTS, Health Information National Trends Survey, MET, metabolic equivalent, NHIS, National Health Interview Survey, SPF, sun-protection factor, UV, ultraviolet, UVR, ultraviolet radiation