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Seven important updates for Skin Cancer Awareness Month
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Skin Cancer Awareness Month, observed every May, is intended to educate the public about the dangers of UV radiation and encourage sun-safe habits.
In conjunction with this year’s observance, HemOnc Today presents seven important updates in melanoma/skin cancer prevention and detection.
• Sancy Leachman, MD, PhD, chair of the dermatology department at Oregon Health & Science University, delivered a two-part talk at HemOnc Today New York that focused on the importance of early detection of melanoma. Watch here.
• Genetic testing can help increase early detection of melanoma among patients and their family members, according to a presenter at HemOnc Today New York. However, the approaches toward genetic testing and counseling must be tailored depending on the cancers observed in a particular family. Read more.
• The FDA has proposed updated regulatory requirements for most sunscreen products sold in the United States. These proposals, if enacted, could have a positive impact on the health of patients and eliminate confusion surrounding these products, according to several dermatologists. Read more.
• Taller individuals may be at increased risk for certain cancers. Researchers observed an unexpectedly strong relationship between height and skin cancers, including melanoma. Read more.
• Patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or small lymphocytic lymphoma could benefit from active melanoma surveillance. Individuals with CLL have an elevated risk for melanoma, and active monitoring could allow for early excision of locally manageable disease. Read more.
• Regular use of sunscreen appeared associated with a reduced risk for melanoma among young adults in Australia, according to findings published in JAMA Dermatology. Read more.
• Active duty military members and veterans in the United States appear to be at elevated risk for melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers, according to study results published in Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Read more.