Researchers at King's College London have uncovered a genetic basis for sun-seeking behavior in a study of over 260,000 people. Genes associated with addiction, personality traits, behavioral tendencies, and brain function play a significant role, complicating efforts to curb excessive sun exposure.
The team analyzed detailed health data from 2,500 twins in the TwinsUK cohort, including their sun-seeking habits and genetics. Identical twins showed far greater similarity in these behaviors than non-identical twins, underscoring the strong influence of genetics.
Further analysis across 260,000 participants pinpointed five key genes tied to sun-seeking. Several overlap with those linked to risk-taking and addiction, such as smoking, cannabis and alcohol use, and number of sexual partners.
Senior author Dr. Mario Falchi from King's College London explained: "Our results suggest that tackling excessive sun exposure or using tanning beds may be more challenging than expected, as genetic factors are at play. Raising public awareness can help individuals recognize their behaviors and the risks of overexposure."
Dr. Veronique Bataille, consultant dermatologist on the study, added: "We often see patients with unhealthy sun habits who know the risks yet persist, even with cancer factors. This research highlights how addiction-regulating genes and risk-taking traits may drive reluctance to change."
