A pilot study of skin age analysis with the use of ultraviolet photography reveals trends in sun exposure behaviors among adolescents

Skin cancer incidence has been consistently increasing in the United States, including an alarming 250% increase in melanoma diagnoses over the past few decades in children, adolescents and young adults. Currently, melanoma is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in those aged 15-29. This can largely be attributed to the persistence of deliberate tanning behaviors, typically beginning in adolescence. Therefore, there is a current need to understand sun exposure behaviors in adolescents and to devise effective intervention strategies promoting sun safe practices aimed at this younger population.
Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology - Category: Dermatology Source Type: research