Keywords

Community Campaigns, Educational Resources, Skin Cancer, Skin Cancer Prevention, Toolkits

 

Authors

  1. Leigh, Katherine
  2. Short, Candace

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States accounting for more than 3.5 million cases a year and over 9,000 deaths annually. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is known to cause the development of skin cancer. It is estimated that one in five people will be diagnosed with melanoma in their lifetime. Tragically, one American dies every 60 minutes from the most preventable form of cancer. Early detection is essential to improve patient outcomes. Fundamental skin cancer prevention strategies include applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or greater, wearing sun protective wide-brimmed hats, wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, avoiding sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and seeking shade. Interventions to promote sun protection behaviors are vital to reduce the incidence of skin cancer in the United States. Free educational resources and toolkits are available to the public to guide outreach programs. Nurses play a pivotal role in increasing public awareness concerning skin cancer risk factors, prevention, and early detection. Community outreach programs are an excellent venue to educate and screen participants and promote public health.