What are Some of the Tanning Bed Dangers?

Every day, millions of teenagers and adults around the world go to tanning beds to get a tan. Many are not aware that they are putting their health at risk. Health researchers have found that there are a number of tanning bed dangers. Below are some of the potential risks associated with tanning bed use:

Damage to the Skin’s DNA

Doctors have stated that going to the tanning bed is just as dangerous as spending too much time in the sun and getting burned. Tanning beds have been shown to cause damage to the skin’s DNA. People who are fair-skinned are most likely to suffer from skin damage after using a tanning bed.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is one of the long-term tanning bed dangers. Tanning Beds contain UV radiation, which has been linked to skin cancer. The number of people being diagnosed with skin cancer has increased drastically in the past few years. Many skin cancer cases can be attributed to tanning beds.

People who use tanning beds are 2.5 times more likely to develop basel cell carcinoma. They are also 1.5 times more likely to develop squamos cell carcinoma. Additionally, people who using tanning beds also increase their risk of developing melanoma by 75 percent. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Danger to Pregnant Woman and Child

Pregnant women are strongly advised against using tanning beds. Women who use tanning beds during pregnancy may develop hyperthermia. Hyperthermia is a condition that develops when the body temperature becomes too high. It can lead to loss of pregnancy.

Using a tanning bed during pregnancy can also deplete the mother’s folic acid. Folic acid deficiency increases the baby’s risk of being born with a neural tubal defect. It is also important to note that a woman’s skin is much more sensitive during pregnancy. Dark, blotchy patches are common during pregnancy and if a woman uses a tanning bed, she is more likely to develop them.

The Bottom Line

People should avoid using tanning beds. Tanning beds damage the skin’s DNA and increase the risk of developing all types of skin cancer. They can also harm a woman’s developing baby. When it doubt, you should always consult with your doctor for further information, especially if you think you may have a medical condition.