Tanning behavior of London-area youth.
BACKGROUND
The World Health Organization recommends that tanning parlors not be used by individuals under age 18 years. The impact of self-tanners on tanning parlor and sunscreen use by Canadian teens is unknown.


OBJECTIVE
To determine teens' use of, knowledge of, attitudes toward, and behavior regarding tanning parlors, self-tanning products, and sunscreen.


METHODS
Self-report questionnaire of grade 10 students in Thames Valley district, Ontario.


RESULTS
Indoor tanning parlors were used by 14%, self-tanners by 28%, and sunscreen daily or most days by 36%. Use was more common in females. There was a strong association between parental and child use of tanning parlors and use of self-tanners. Sixty-two percent believe that self-tanners give adequate photoprotection.


CONCLUSIONS
Further education is required to address teen tanning parlor use, infrequent sunscreen use, and lack of knowledge about the safety of tanning parlors and self-tanning products.
Gordon
Danielle
D
Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON. dgordon2009@meds.uwo.ca
Guenther
Lyn
L
D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008131:London; D008297:Male; D055108:Sunbathing / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data