UV light tanning as a type of substance-related disorder.
OBJECTIVE
To better understand the complex motivations involved with UV light (UVL) tanning behavior.


METHODS
Two written instruments, the CAGE (Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye-opener) Questionnaire, used to screen for alcohol abuse or dependence, and the American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria for substance-related disorders, were modified to evaluate subjects for a substance-related disorder involving UVL tanning.


METHODS
Galveston Island beach. Subjects A total of 145 beach-goers.


METHODS
Positive findings from the 2 evaluation instruments.


RESULTS
Of the 145 subjects, 38 (26%) met the modified CAGE criteria, and 77 (53%) met the modified DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria for a substance-related disorder with regard to UVL and related sun tanning. The results from both instruments were significantly associated (P = .03).


CONCLUSIONS
Individuals who chronically and repetitively expose themselves to UVL to tan may have a novel type of UVL substance-related disorder.
Warthan
Molly M
MM
Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555-0783, USA.
Uchida
Tatsuo
T
Wagner
Richard F
RF
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D016739:Behavior, Addictive; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013472:Sunlight / Q000009:adverse effects; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects