Teens and Tans: A Future Health Problem?
Aired April 28, 2006 on 90.3 WCPN
The American Academy of Dermatology warns that there is a growing epidemic of skin cancer in the United States and teenagers are particularly at risk. That's because of their fixation on being tan. As part of our coverage of children's health, ideastream's Lisa Ann Pinkerton reports.

For many teens, indoor tanning before the prom or a vacation is a must. But American Academy of Dermatology warns they're ignoring a growing skin cancer epidemic. According to a recent report by the Mayo Health Clinic, the skin cancer rate in the U.S. has grown dramatically since the 1980s. Today, one in five Americans develops the disease, but many people - especially teenagers - still ignore advice to limit exposure to the sun. The following links provide background and prevention tips for those looking to protect themselves.

• U.S. Food & Drug Administration: Teen Tanning Hazards
  

• KidsHealth.org: The Tanning Taboo

• American Academy of Pediatrics : Do Your Skin a Favor: Skip the Spring Break Tan
  

• The Kurt and Shonda Schilling Melanoma Foundation: Information on the Dangers of Tanning

• Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine: One in three U.S. teen girls use tanning beds

• American Academy of Dermatology: American Academy of Dermatology Urges Teens to Heed Warning on Dangers of Tanning