New Warning Over Sunbeds
A survey carried out by Cancer Research UK found that two thirds of first-time sunbed users have tried them out because they've been encouraged to by family and friends.
According to a survey carried out by Cancer Research UK, over a quarter of 18 to 24 year olds receive encouragement from their partner or a family member when considering using sunbeds for the first time.
Over half of sunbed users in this age range believe they have come back into fashion.
Using a sunbed before the age of 35 is said to increase the risk of malignant melanoma, the second most common cancer in people between the ages of 15 and 34, by 75%.
Sarah Mayes used sunbeds for over a year. She tells Heart about the consequences.
The survey also found that the majority of young people using sunbeds for the first time do so mainly to improve their appearance.
Chris Lunn, SunSmart campaign manager at Cancer Research UK said ''We may all want to improve our appearance to help alleviate the mid-winter gloom, but sunbeds aren't the answer. As well as increasing your risk of skin cancer, you could be left with wrinkles, leathery skin and age spots.''
By highlighting the main health risks connected to sunbeds, it's hoped people will become more aware of the potential damage they could be doing to themselves, and so discourage friends and family from using them in the future.
