Young people suffer sunburn significantly more often than other age groups

A new study by the Finnish Cancer Society and the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) shows that young people experience sunburn far more frequently than the general population, public broadcaster Yle reports.

According to the survey, 70 percent of young respondents reported suffering sunburn at least once in the past year. In a broader population survey conducted two years ago, only 19 percent reported the same.

While young people are familiar with the UV index provided by the Finnish Meteorological Institute, the study found that many use it more as a guide for tanning than for protection. Excessive UV exposure increases the risk of skin cancer.