A preliminary investigation of the predictors of tanning dependence.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate possible predictors of tanning dependence including demographic variables, exposure and protective behaviors, and other health-related behaviors.


METHODS
This study consisted of an online survey of 400 students and other volunteers from a university community.


RESULTS
Twenty-seven percent of the sample was classified as tanning dependent. Tanning dependence was predicted by ethnicity and skin type, indoor and outdoor tanning and burning, and lower skin protective behaviors, as well as smoking and body mass index.


CONCLUSIONS
Young adults are at risk for tanning dependence, which can be predicted by specific demographic and behavioral variables.
Heckman
Carolyn J
CJ
Population Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Cheltenham, PA 19012, USA. Carolyn.Heckman@fccc.edu
Egleston
Brian L
BL
Wilson
Diane B
DB
Ingersoll
Karen S
KS
D000328:Adult; D016739:Behavior, Addictive / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D015992:Body Mass Index; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology; D012880:Skin Pigmentation / Q000528:radiation effects; D012907:Smoking; D015144:Southeastern United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology; D055108:Sunbathing / Q000523:psychology*; D013471:Sunburn / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects; D014495:Universities; D055815:Young Adult