Public Interest in a Potentially Harmful, Non–Evidence-Based “Wellness” Practice: Cross-Sectional Analysis of Perineum Sunning

Background Perineum sunning/tanning is a potentially harmful yet popular new health trend cultivated by viral social media post, famous public figures, and subsequent coverage. Objective Our primary objective to evaluate interest in perineum sunning/tanning. Methods Using an observational study design, we extracted data from Google Trends for the terms “perineum sunning,” tanning,” “Metaphysical Meagan,” “Josh Brolin”; Twitter (via SproutSocial) sunning” tanning” November 1, 2019, December 31, 2019. UberSuggest was used investigate monthly search volumes user engagement. We construct autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models forecast sunning tanning had post on never occurred. Next, performed integral function calculate cumulative increase day after occurred end of year as area between forecasted values actual values. Welch t tests, compared using over 1-, 2-, 4-week periods determine if increased were statistically significant time. Lastly, monitored through September 30, 2020, capture trends during summer months. Results Before Instagram went viral, there no sunning. ARIMA modeling searches (0.00) not gone while conveyed relative 919.00% 2020. The term mentioned 804 (SD 766.1) times daily this 7-day period, which also significantly higher than predicted (P≤.03), totaling 5628 tweets these 7 days. volume remained both intervals. User engagement showed that nearly 50% people who searched likely click returned link more information. Continued observance demonstrated spikes months, June July Conclusions one claiming non–evidence-based benefits regular sun exposure—without use sunscreen—generated interest. Medical journals, dermatologists, other care professionals are obligated educate correct misperceptions about wellness such