Teenage Cancer Trust Warns Against Dangerous ‘Sunburning’ Trend Among Young Adults
In light of the recent heatwave and the predicted rise in temperatures, cancer charity Teenage Cancer Trust has issued a warning against the dangerous ‘sunburning’ trend that has been circulating on social media platforms.
The charity has revealed that a staggering 73% of 18-24 year olds admit to getting sunburnt every year, with many turning to the online trend that suggests sun exposure without sunscreen can give skin a ‘healthy boost’ or even ‘burn off’ acne.
However, this trend is not only misleading, but it can also have serious consequences. According to research carried out by Teenage Cancer Trust, getting sunburnt just once every two years can triple the risk of skin cancer compared to never being burned. Melanoma, the most common skin cancer in young people, is often caused by overexposure to UV light from the sun and can also be found in sunbeds.
In light of these alarming statistics, Rosie Vare, Health Information Manager at Teenage Cancer Trust, has strongly advised against young people actively seeking out sunburn in the hopes of achieving a ‘healthy glow’. She states, “Not many people realize that getting sunburnt just once every two years can triple your risk of skin cancer, compared to if you’ve never been burnt. Sun damage to your skin when you’re young can lead to skin cancer developing in later life, so it’s really important for young people to know how to stay safe in the sun and protect themselves.”
The charity’s research also found that three in 10 (30%) 18-24 year olds incorrectly believe that harmful UV rays are only present in the summer when the sun is out, and a third believe that having a base tan can prevent sunburn. This misinformation only further emphasizes the need for education on the dangers of sun exposure.
To help young people stay safe in the sun, Teenage Cancer Trust has shared information on their website about how to protect oneself from harmful UV rays. Vare advises using a generous amount of water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF30 and a UVA star rating of four or five, as well as wearing a hat and sunglasses to protect the face and eyes. She also recommends seeking shade during the peak times of 11am to 3pm and wearing protective clothing when in the sun.
The charity also highlights the urgency of their message, stating that every day, seven young people aged 13-24 hear the words “you have cancer”. These individuals require specialized nursing care and support to get them through their cancer treatment and beyond. Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to meeting this vital need.
For more information, contact Kat Harrison-Dibbits, Head of Communications at Teenage Cancer Trust, on kat.harrison-dibbits@teenagecancertrust.org.
The research was carried out online for Teenage Cancer Trust through the Consumer Omnibus of Opinium Research from 14th to 21st July 2023 amongst a sample of 2,000 UK adults (18+). All results have been weighted to be nationally representative.
About Teenage Cancer Trust
Every day, seven young people in the UK aged 13 to 24 hear the words “you have cancer”.
Teenage Cancer Trust puts young people in the best possible place, physically, mentally and emotionally, for their cancer treatment and beyond.
This is achieved through their expert nurses, support teams, and hospital units. They are the only UK charity dedicated to providing this specialized nursing care and support.
Teenage Cancer Trust is a registered charity: 1062559 (England & Wales), SC039757.
Visit www.teenagecancertrust.org for more information.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.