Intentional Outdoor Tanning Linked to Higher Skin Cancer Risk: JAMA
USA: Among U.S. women, intentional outdoor tanning was most common in those who were younger, non-Hispanic White, physically active, and reported heavy or binge drinking. Researchers have found in new research that women who intentionally tanned outdoors were also more likely to experience sunburn, potentially increasing their long-term risk of skin cancer. These findings support targeted strategies to reduce intentional tanning and promote sun-protective behaviors.
The study, published in JAMA Dermatology, was conducted by Dawn M. Holman from the Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, and colleagues. The investigators analyzed data from the 2024 National Health Interview Survey, a nationally representative survey of civilian, noninstitutionalized U.S. adults aged 18 years or older.
The cross-sectional analysis included 31,615 adults, with a mean age of 48.3 years. Women made up 51.4% of the sample. Participants were asked how often they intentionally sought sun exposure outdoors to develop a tan, as well as whether they had experienced a sunburn during the previous 12 months.
The study led to the following findings:
- Overall, 30.2% of U.S. adults reported intentionally tanning outdoors.
- Intentional outdoor tanning was more common among women than men (35.6% vs. 26.6%).
- The highest prevalence was observed among young women, with 51.7% of women aged 18–24 years and 48.1% of women aged 18–29 years reporting intentional outdoor tanning.
- In both women and men, intentional tanning was associated with younger age, race and ethnicity, sun sensitivity, physical activity, and alcohol use.
- Among women, the highest prevalence was seen in non-Hispanic White women (41.3%), those meeting both aerobic and strength physical activity guidelines (39.5%), and those reporting heavy or binge drinking (47.2%).
- Women with some college education (37.5%) and those with a healthy body weight (38.7%) were also more likely to intentionally tan outdoors.
- Among men, married or partnered individuals had a slightly higher prevalence of intentional outdoor tanning than other men.
- Adults who intentionally tanned outdoors were significantly more likely to report sunburn in the past year than those who did not intentionally tan (49.9% vs. 28.3%), indicating greater exposure to harmful UV radiation.
The authors noted that intentional outdoor tanning involves deliberate exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun in order to darken the skin. Because UV exposure is a known risk factor for skin cancer, the findings highlight an important opportunity for prevention efforts.
The researchers concluded that intentional outdoor tanning remains common among U.S. adults, particularly among younger women. They said the observed demographic and behavioral patterns could help guide future research and public health interventions aimed at reducing tanning-related UV exposure and encouraging sun-safe practices.
Reference:
Holman DM, Boring MA, Julian AK, Moser RP, Perna FM. Prevalence and Associated Factors of Intentional Outdoor Tanning Among US Adults. JAMA Dermatol. Published online July 22, 2026. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2026.2450
