NHS experts have issued a warning about a dangerous TikTok trend that could raise the risk of developing cancer. The Queen Victoria Hospital Foundation Trust in East Grinstead cautioned the public against a trend called “sunburning.” This trend, promoted by some social media influencers, involves avoiding sunscreen to give the skin a “healthy boost” or even intentionally burning it to treat acne. TikTok has been contacted for comment on this issue.
Sam Orkar, the clinical director of the hospital’s plastics and burns services, emphasized the risks, stating, “Trends like this not only pose immediate dangers but can also lead to lifelong health issues.” He urged individuals to use sunscreen for protection and consider safer options for treating skin conditions.
Although the West Sussex hospital has not yet treated any cases related to this trend, it warned that those who follow it could face serious health consequences in the future. The health authority highlighted that repeated sunburns increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
The Queen Victoria Hospital sees approximately 700 skin cancer patients each year from Sussex, Surrey, and Kent, with the numbers steadily increasing. According to Mr. Orkar, melanoma is the 5th most common type of cancer in the UK. Cancer Research UK predicts a record 20,800 melanoma skin cancer cases will be diagnosed this year, up from the yearly average of 19,300 between 2020-2022.
