San Diego State University (SDSU) researchers explain how using a new technology to show future aging can lead to lower skin cancer risk behaviors. The research is being presented Friday at the Society of Behavioral Medicine’s (SBM’s) 39th Annual Meeting & Scientific Sessions.
SAN DIEGO (PRWEB) April 12, 2018
People tanned indoors less often after seeing a simulation of how their older selves would look if they continued indoor tanning versus if they stopped, according to new research from San Diego State University (SDSU).
The research is being presented Friday at the Society of Behavioral Medicine’s (SBM’s) 39th Annual Meeting & Scientific Sessions.
Ultraviolet light exposure through indoor and outdoor tanning is the leading environmental risk factor for developing skin cancer. Now, a new SDSU study explains how a new technology that shows future aging effects could lead people to engage in less risky tanning behavior.
One of the main reasons people tan is because they believe tanned skin is physically attractive. However, previous research reveals that individuals are less likely to tan if they are worried about the potential negative impacts of tanning—increased wrinkles, sun spots, and premature aging of the skin.
Hoping to build on these findings, Aaron Blashill, an Assistant Professor in SDSU’s department of psychology, and colleagues conducted a randomized controlled trial in which 219 participants, who were considered at risk for developing skin cancer, received one of three interventions: Viewing a novel facial morphing computer program that simulated how their older selves would look if they continued tanning or stopped tanning, as well as receiving health information; an alternative treatment focused on mindfulness plus health information; or health information alone. The researchers then followed the participants for one month following the intervention.
They found that participants who saw the facial morphing program reported tanning indoors 60 percent less frequently than their peers in the other two interventions at the end of the month.
“These results are important as they suggest that a brief 10-minute intervention focusing on appearance changes can substantially reduce indoor tanning among at-risk individuals,” said Blashill. “It’s possible that kiosks could be installed in physician waiting areas, and patients could use the facial morphing program while waiting to see their physician. There are also possible expansions with the use of mobile apps, which would allow people to see the future effects of tanning from the convenience of their smart phone.”
The research team will present their findings Friday at 4:30 p.m. CT during a paper session at the SBM Annual Meeting, being held in New Orleans at the Hilton Riverside New Orleans. Blashill is an SBM member.
About San Diego State University
San Diego State University is a major public research institution that provides transformative experiences, both inside and outside of the classroom, for its more than 36,000 students. The university offers bachelor's degrees in 95 areas, master's degrees in 78 areas and doctorates in 22 areas. Students participate in research, international experiences, sustainability and entrepreneurship initiatives, internships and mentoring, and a broad range of student life and leadership opportunities. The university’s rich campus life features opportunities for students to participate in, and engage with, the creative and performing arts, a Division I athletics program and the vibrant cultural life of the San Diego region. For more information, visit http://www.sdsu.edu.
About the Society of Behavioral Medicine
The Society of Behavioral Medicine (SBM) is a 2,400-member organization of scientific researchers, clinicians and educators. They study interactions among behavior, biology and the environment, and translate findings into interventions that improve the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities (http://www.sbm.org).
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