The Dangers of Indoor Tanning [Infographic]

Despite widespread knowledge that exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is detrimental to skin health, a huge number of adults and teenagers are still using tanning beds to achieve that sun-kissed glow. The Georgetown University School of Nursing in collaboration with the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, decided to investigate who exactly is using indoor tanning beds and what are their consequences. Among other facts, they learned that using an indoor tanning device even once is associated with a 20% increase in the risk of developing melanoma skin cancer.

According to a 2010 survey, 5.6 percent of adults in the U.S. reported having used an indoor tanning device in the previous year. Here’s another shocker: researchers have determined that indoor tanning facilities outnumber Starbucks cafes.

Below is a jaw dropping infographic that breaks down the facts of indoor tanning. This infographic was created by the Georgetown University School of Nursing with help from the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. Learn many more facts from these brilliant minds by clicking here.