Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer with more than one million cases diagnosed each year in the United States alone, according to the American Cancer Society. The incidence of skin cancer has steadily risen over the past three decades. Most skin cancers are caused from too much ultraviolet light exposure from the sun and as such, they are largely preventable. Prevention measures are paramount in reducing the incidence of skin cancer and stopping the global epidemic. The following is a list of some of the foremost organizations in the fight against skin cancer:
CDC
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a leading force in the fight against skin cancer. It is the U.S. government agency responsible for leadership in all public health efforts including the prevention and control of disease, injury, disability and environmental hazards. Its primary goals with regard to skin cancer are to increase the number of people using sun protection measures and reducing the rate of melanoma deaths. The CDC conducts and publishes extensive research on skin cancer, as well as funds multiple skin cancer education, treatment and awareness programs.
National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention
The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention was originally organized by the CDC in 1998. It is currently sponsored by the Melanoma Research Foundation and 44 other organizations dedicated to promoting skin cancer prevention and awareness nationwide. The National Council is based in Maryland and meets twice a year in Washington, D.C., to discuss new scientific evidence, prevention measures and address public misinformation from the tanning industry and the media. They seek to meet sun protection objectives for public health and increase the number of people who implement at least one of the following skin cancer prevention methods: avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., wearing sun protective clothing, using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and avoiding artificial sources of ultraviolet light (tanning beds). The National Council also strives to coordinate a public health response to reduce skin cancer rates, increase the importance of skin cancer prevention and support among relevant state, local and national organizations and increase awareness and compliance with skin cancer prevention methods among all populations. Public outreach and awareness events sponsored by the National Council occur throughout the year and are scheduled on its website Skincancerprevention.org.
Skin Cancer Foundation
The Skin Cancer Foundation is an international organization devoted to combating the incidence of skin cancer throughout the world. Its mission is to provide public and professional education, medical training and research in order to reduce the incidence of disease. The foundation's prevention efforts include promoting awareness and education through multimedia channels (books, brochures, publications, advertisements, etc.), international conferences, endorsements and research grants.
American Academy of Dermatology
The AAD was established in 1869 and represents virtually all practicing dermatologists in the United States. Its website has a wealth of information about skin cancer such as an illustrated guide to melanoma detection, skin self-exam information and sun safety tips in addition to a national dermatologist search function. The American Academy of Dermatology also coordinates free nationwide skin cancer screenings. To search for a free screening in your area visit the link in the resources section.
