The Dangers of Tanning

Jaime Regen Rea went from a self-proclaimed tanning addict to a melanoma patient in just a couple of years. She died just three weeks shy of her 30th birthday.

Because her family believes no one should die from a tan, some family members share Jaime’s emotional story in the American Academy of Dermatology’s TV and print public service advertisements (PSAs). The Academy also is distributing a radio PSA, “Wannabe,” which is a contemporary folk song performed by a professional recording artist that encourages people not to tan and instead embrace their natural look.

We ask that you share this with someone you love who may be at risk of skin cancer as a result of tanning

Research shows indoor tanning increases a person’s melanoma risk by 75 percent. Melanoma is the most common form of cancer for 25 to29 year-olds and the second most common form of cancer for 15 to 29 year-olds. UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds also has been associated with non-melanoma skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, as well as wrinkles and age spots.

If you notice a spot on your body that appears irregular, don’t wait to have it looked at. The faster you act, the better.