Final answer:
A severe blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence is associated with an increased risk of skin cancer in young or middle-aged adults. Severe sunburns can cause damage to skin layers and potentially lead to DNA damage, which can manifest as skin cancer later in life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ailment in young or middle-aged adults that is associated with a severe blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence is skin cancer. Sunburn is caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to an increased risk of skin cancer later in life. Specifically, severe sunburns that cause blistering can indicate damage to both the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin, heightening the risk. While the immediate reaction to a severe sunburn might include pain, redness, and blistering, the long-term effects can be much more serious. It is important to protect the skin from excessive UV radiation by wearing appropriate sunscreen and clothing, and to monitor the skin for changes as one gets older, particularly if there's a history of severe sunburns.