Sunbed use of children aged 12-17 in 2023

The use of tanning beds in Iceland is regularly investigated by Gallup on behalf of the collaborative group on ultraviolet radiation. The collaborative group includes representatives from the Icelandic Radiation Safety Authority, the Directorate of Health, the Association of Dermatologists and the Reykjavík Cancer Institute. Measurements of 12-17 years old lightbed use began in 2009 and is 26% then current measurement, but 8%. The ratio has therefore declined substantially since 2009.

According to the new survey, those who use tanning beds are primarily between the ages of 15 and 17. Only 1% of children aged 12-14 had used a tanning bed in the past year, but for 15 to 17 years old the proportion was 14%. The same proportion of girls and boys aged 12-17 had used a tanning bed in 2023.

When the 2023 results are compared with the 2016 results, it is shown that those who use tanning beds on other tables have increased frequency of exposure. For example, the number of people going weekly or more often to the light increases from 0.3% to 0.9% and the number of people going 1-3 times a month increases from 0.7% to 2.0%.

This year, a question was added that relates to the knowledge of young people of the dangers of using tanning beds. About 92% of the young people agree with the claim that using tanning beds can cause skin cancer. Those who have not used a tanning bed in the past 12 months agree more with this claim than those who have been exposed (93% versus 73%).

In 2019, the Nordic Radiation Safety and Healthcare Products Administration issued a circular advising people not to use tanning beds. The Icelandic Radiation Safety Authority strongly recommends against the use of tanning beds, as their use increases the risk of skin cancer.