Exposure to artificial ultraviolet radiation in France.

Exposure to artificial ultraviolet (UV) radiation has increased in recent years in Europe. However, in France, there is little information available on the population’s exposure. This article presents the results from the 2010 Cancer Barometer regarding the proportion of artificial UV users in France, their characteristics, frequency of use, and their level of information and knowledge about the risks associated with this type of exposure. This is a two-stage random sample survey (household followed by individual). The fieldwork for the survey took place from April 3 to August 7, 2010, among 3,359 people aged 15 to 75. In 2010, 13.4% of French people reported having used artificial UV radiation at least once in their lifetime, and 3.5% in the past 12 months. Use in the past 12 months was most common among women (5.0%) and younger people, particularly those aged 20–25 (9.9%). Furthermore, 3.5% of those under 18 reported having used UV light at some point in their lives, even though minors are prohibited from using UV tanning beds. One-third of users report exposure more than 10 times a year. The most common locations are beauty salons (50%) and tanning centers (46%). Only 49.2% of respondents feel well-informed about the cancer risks associated with UV exposure. Certain misconceptions about the supposed benefits of such exposure are prevalent among the general public. A quarter of respondents believe that exposure to artificial UV light prepares the skin for the sun and helps prevent sunburn. Thus, raising public awareness appears necessary to combat misconceptions about the risks associated with this practice. This first survey on the French population’s exposure to artificial UV radiation has made it possible to better identify users both quantitatively and qualitatively and to provide an initial overview of practices, knowledge, and risk perceptions among the general population in France regarding artificial UV radiation. This study should help identify avenues for action in terms of preventing cancer risks linked to artificial UV radiation. [author’s abstract]

Author(s): Leon C, BECK F, Gaillot de saintignon J, Tordjman I, Benmarhnia T

Publishing year: 2012

Pages: 205-209

Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2012, n° 18-19, p. 205-209

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