Experts warn of cancer-risk link to TikTok trend

Experts are raising alarms about a concerning trend on TikTok known as 'sunburning,' which they believe could significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer. This trend involves individuals intentionally avoiding sunscreen to achieve a sunburn, with the misguided belief that it will enhance their skin's appearance or even help treat conditions like acne. The Queen Victoria Hospital Foundation Trust, located in East Grinstead, has issued a warning to the public regarding this dangerous practice. Sam Orkar, the clinical director of the hospital's plastics and burns services, emphasized the potential long-term health risks associated with such trends, stating, 'Trends such as this not only pose an immediate danger but have the potential to cause lifelong health issues. ' He strongly encourages people to prioritize their skin health by using sunscreen and exploring safer alternatives for treating skin conditions. Although the West Sussex hospital has not yet encountered any cases directly linked to this TikTok trend, they caution that individuals who engage in 'sunburning' may experience negative effects in the years to come. The health authority has highlighted that repeated episodes of sunburn throughout a person's life can elevate the risk of developing skin cancer, as well as contribute to premature aging of the skin. The Queen Victoria Hospital reports that it sees approximately 700 skin cancer patients annually from regions including Sussex, Surrey, and Kent, and this number has been steadily increasing over the years. Mr. Orkar pointed out that melanoma is currently the fifth most common type of cancer in the UK. According to predictions from Cancer Research UK, there will be a record 20,800 cases of melanoma diagnosed this year, which marks an increase from the yearly average of 19,300 cases recorded between 2020 and 2022. This alarming trend underscores the importance of sun safety and the need for individuals to be vigilant about protecting their skin from harmful UV rays.