Sunbed ads spreading harmful misinformation to young people
Summary
Some tanning companies in the UK are spreading misleading information on social media, claiming sunbeds offer health benefits in winter. These claims, such as sunbeds preventing colds, stimulating weight loss, or treating skin conditions, are considered dangerous by health experts. Authorities and cancer organizations warn that sunbeds can increase the risk of skin cancer, especially for young users.Key Facts
- Tanning companies in the UK use social media to say sunbeds have health benefits.
- Claims include sunbeds preventing colds and flu, helping with weight loss, and improving skin and mental health.
- Health experts and government authorities call these claims irresponsible and unsafe.
- The Advertising Standards Authority banned six tanning ads due to false health claims.
- Using sunbeds is linked to a higher risk of melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
- The World Health Organization says using sunbeds before age 35 raises melanoma risk by 59%.
- Young people in the UK are the main users of sunbeds, with about 1 in 7 of those aged 18-24 using them in the past year.
- Nearly a quarter of people under 25 wrongly believe sunbeds lower skin cancer risk.
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