The Importance of Educating Young Children of Sun Safety Practices
6 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 11:02 AM |
| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Epidemiologic data suggest that several skin cancers can be prevented if children and adolescents are protected from UV radiation. Schools can participate in reducing exposure of young persons to UV radiation from the sun during school-related activities by offering education and skill-building activities to reinforce the development of healthful behaviors. School-based efforts to prevent skin cancer can be more effective in the framework of a coordinated school health program that includes family and community participation and builds on the context and current practices in the school and community. Coordinated school health programs aim to create and support environments where young persons can gain the knowledge, attitudes, and skills required to make and maintain healthy choices and habits. These programs integrate health education, a healthy school environment, physical education, nutrition services, health services, mental health and counseling services, health promotion programs for faculty and staff, and efforts to integrate school activities with family and community life.
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Being aware of existing practices for sun exposure and sun protection among teachers, staff, and students might help define gaps in optimal sun-safety practices. Careful observations for a few days might also provide important information concerning students' use of shade areas and sunscreen at recess or lunch time, and staff's use of hats, shirts, and sunglasses. Discussions with students and staff who practice sun-safe behaviors might prove useful in planning and improving implementation of sun-safety practices.
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Skin cancer prevention measures vary in both their ease of adoption and relevance. Schools should not allow an "all or nothing" approach to undermine the effectiveness of their skin cancer prevention efforts. For sun-safety protection, a short-sleeve shirt and cap might be better than no hat and a sleeveless top. Being flexible is important while moving in the direction of optimal skin cancer prevention environments, policies, and programs.
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Susan Lucy: "Basal Cell Carcinoma Affects Approximately One Million Americans Each Year"
168 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 7:33 AM
Susan Lucy, is a beach body coach. She loves to work out, eat healthy, and stay fit. Susan is a mom. She is a blogger, a tweeter...
Susan has skin cancer.
Read her story about being diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma.
Sun - Friend or Foe???
by
Now, I don't have the really bad kind - melonoma. I have Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), which is the most common form of skin cancer, affecting approximately one million Americans each year. In fact, it is the most common of all cancers. More than one out of every three new cancers are skin cancers, and the vast majority are basal cell carcinomas. These cancers arise in the basal cells, which line the deepest layer of the epidermis (top skin layer).
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
I am very good about going to the Dermatologist. My grandfather did die of Melonoma at 50 and I have a lot of moles and freckles. So once a year, I subject myself to a full body scan by my Dermatologist. I have had a few mysterious looking moles taken off but all in all, I get a clean bill of health and the "wear suncreen and I will see you next spring" speech. This time though, I had two red patches on my right shoulder and back that I had noticed over the winter and thought they were most likely eczema. When my dermatologist told me that she didn't like the look of them and wanted to biopsy, I knew they were probably cancer or at least pre-cancerous. When I called the office for results and they told me that the doctor would call me back, I really knew. That is never a good sign.
Anyone with a history of sun exposure can develop basal cell carcinoma. However, people who are at highest risk have fair skin, blond or red hair, and blue, green, or grey eyes. Those most often affected are older people, but as the number of new cases has increased sharply each year in the last few decades, the average age of patients at onset has steadily decreased. The disease is rarely seen in children, but occasionally a teenager is affected. Dermatologists report that more and more people in their twenties and thirties are being treated for this skin cancer. Men with basal cell carcinoma have outnumbered women with the disease, but more women are getting basal cell carcinomas than in the past.
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Basal cell carcinomas are easily treated in their early stages. Although this skin cancer seldom spreads, or metastasizes, to vital organs, it can damage surrounding tissue, sometimes causing considerable destruction and disfigurement — and some basal cell carcinomas are more aggressive than others.
I have two options for treatment:
EXCISIONAL SURGERY
After numbing the area with local anesthesia, the physician uses a scalpel to remove the entire growth along with a surrounding border of normal skin as a safety margin. The skin around the surgical site is then closed with a number of stitches, and the excised tissue is sent to the laboratory for microscopic examination to verify that all the malignant cells have been removed. The effectiveness of the technique produces cure rates around 90 percent.
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
CURETTAGE AND ELECTRODESICCATION
Using local anesthesia, the physician scrapes off the cancerous growth with a curette (a sharp, ring-shaped instrument). The heat produced by an electrocautery needle destroys residual tumor and controls bleeding. This technique may be repeated twice or more to ensure that all cancer cells are eliminated. It can produce cure rates approaching those of surgical excision, but may not be as useful for aggressive basal cell carcinomas or those in high-risk or difficult sites.
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Because my cancer is superficial, I am planning on the latter option because the recovery is quicker and I won't need stitches. I still will have two circular scars as opposed to a linear one but I can deal with that. This cancer developed in the last year. Had I not had yearly checkups, I may not have had this option.
People who have had one basal cell carcinoma are at risk for developing others over the years, either in the same area or elsewhere on the body. For the next year, I will have to go back every 3 months to make sure more cancer does not develop in other areas.
I didn't post this note for pity but rather to hopefully educate people about the importance of having yearly skin checks with a dermatologist.
I am also using this as a learning lesson for my kids who give me grief all the time about wearing sunscreen. The damage on me was done years ago. 85% of sun damage is done by the time you are 18 years old. I have taken pictures of my shoulder and back biopsy sites and have talked extensively to them about wearing sunscreen. They have never had a sunburn but as they get older, they are more resistant to my insistence that they apply it every time they go out in the sun. We have a house on Cape Cod so it is virtually impossible for us to stay out of the sun. Hopefully, they will learn from my experience.
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Be well,
Susan
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
NBC's chief medical editor, Dr. Nancy Snyderman, shares important facts about the most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma
0 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 2:12 AMVisit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Lisa Carey Shares Sun Safety Tips For Man's Best Friend
0 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 1:37 AM
Lisa Carey, an award winning freelance writer, has worked with families volunteering and professionally for 20+ years. She shares with her readers a variety of topics important to families. E-mail Lisa with your questions about families and Houston. She recently wrote the following article for the Los Angeles eXaminer.
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| From RIP |
Pets are people too, well in many families they are. During the hot summer months it is important to not only provide sun safety for your people family but pets too. Pets too can become victims of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. In Heat related illnesses we talked about keeping your family safe, now learn how to keep your pet safe from the sun.
Tips for keeping your dog safe in the sun
Never leave your pet in the car. On July 2, 2009, two police dogs died after being left in police cruisers during Britain’s heat wave.
Watch the amount of time you leave your dog outside. If you dog must remain outside or is a pet that lives outside make sure you do the following:
- have water available at all times using a container that cannot be tipped over.
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| From RIP |
- start with ice chips so they don’t gorge on water they also enjoy the “treat.”
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| From RIP |
- provide your pet with a shaded area to rest and stay safe from the sun.
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| From RIP |
- if possible allow your pet to play in the sprinkler or swimming pool.
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| From RIP |
- if using a crate make sure it is wire so it is open to the breeze.
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| From RIP |
- if using a chain make sure they can’t tie or twist themselves up around the post or tree which eventually keeps them away from the shade and water they so badly need.
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| From RIP |
- when traveling, walking or visiting with your pet outdoors bring along a water spray bottle and spray his foot pads, stomach and back for relief.
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| From RIP |
Have your dog shaved or groomed to have shorter hair during the summer months when “hot spots” are more likely to occur. Hot spots or open, oozing sores on your dogs skin that can occur as a result of matted or heavy hair and moisture build up. The dog will scratch and nibble at it to get relief actually making the sores much worse.
Some animals, just like people are more susceptible to the heat such as those with short noses, darker coats, thicker coats, puppies and older pets. Be aware of their special needs and circumstances.
Symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion in pets include:
- panting more than normal
- blue or white tongue and bright red gums
- staggering around
- weak
- vomiting or diarrhea
- non responsive
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion is just as deadly in pets as it can be in humans. If you dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms or a combination of them get to the veterinarian immediately. Cool the dog with the use of immersion in tepid water or hose him off, gently. Take your pet into air conditioning, wet this tongue and place cool, wet towels around him until you can get professional treatment. Cooling too fast can be a problem, so be sure not to use cold or ice water. Just like with your family, your family pet’s first line of defense against sun damage and heat related illness is prevention and care.
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| From RIP |
This post is dedicated to "B", the rottweiler bullmsatiff of Covina, California. January 2008 - June 2009. May you RIP.
From Sun Safety Alliance Photos
Midas Touch: Before bronzing or self-tanning, always smooth skin by exfoliating and shaving legs -- even if you're a blonde. Peach-colored fuzz? No thanks.
Overexposure: 90 percent of wrinkles are caused by the sun.
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Rays of Our Lives: Two-thirds of all sun damage is incidental (e.g., while driving or walking your dog, not lying by the pool).
Bright Idea: Before you choose to lunch alfresco, consider that at midday, sun rays are 10 percent UVB (the burning rays) and 90 percent UVA (the aging rays). Both contribute to melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Skinny-Dipping: Slim and lengthen the look of legs by applying bronzer or tinted self-tanner along the outer sides of legs and thighs (from the hips down) and blending inward.
Be Firm: Ever notice how you feel less jiggly when your muscles are sore? Exercise fatigue temporarily firms up muscles, so schedule workouts and bikini days accordingly.
Hello, Sunshine: Baking and (heaven forbid) burning belong in the kitchen, not at the beach. But even if you crave a sun-kissed complexion, sun-parched skin (a.k.a. wrinkles, sagging, and brown spots) is completely unnecessary. A bevy of new bronzers and self-tanners ensure the look without the damage.
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Going to be in ray range? Keep your protection potent by stocking up at the start of the season. (If you're using the right amount, you should finish a 4-ounce bottle with four applications.) Sunscreens have an expiration date -- typically a year, says Miami dermatologist Dr. Fredric Brandt. But if your bottle has been sitting out in the sun or heating up in the car, toss it. Ironically, some sunscreen ingredients lose their efficacy when exposed to heat.
Regardless of what the bottle claims, no formula is truly waterproof, warns Los Angeles dermatologist Dr. Ronald Moy. While water- or sweat-proof formulas last longer, "sunscreens do wash off with water -- whether you're sweating or swimming," says Moy. To stay protected post-pool, reapply every two hours or after toweling off.
Bare Necessities
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Sexy summer skin starts with cellulite smoothing. While many dermatologists agree that topical treatments are unlikely to produce permanent results, massaging in a caffeine-infused cream can temporarily boost circulation and plump skin to make cellulite less visible. Regular exfoliation and moisturizing also help improve skin texture to minimize lumps and bumps.
As for removing unwanted hair, new regrowth-inhibiting creams and at-home bikini groomers buy you more time between waxing, depilation, or shaving. Lasers offer a permanent option but should be avoided even if you have the slightest tan. "Lasers target pigment, and since tan is pigment, it's a potential competition for the laser and could cause problems, like burning," says NYC dermatologist Dr. Bradford Katchen. If you're planning on going out in the sun, he suggests de-fuzzing at least a day before hitting the beach, especially if you use a depilatory or wax. "Both can make skin sensitive, and sun exposure will increase the irritation," he says. Yet another reason to spend some quality time under your big beach umbrella.
Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: Summer Skin Care Guide
Interview with Sonja Gfeller, creator of AYANA Apparel, Fashion Forward, UV Protective Clothing
4 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 11:53 PM
From Sun Safety Alliance Photos
1. Describe your where you grew up.
I grew up in Aarberg, Switzerland close to the Swiss French boarder in a small historic town. My parents owned a business. The house we grew up in had a big backyard with a vegetable garden. I am the oldest of three, most close to my sister. My mother began making clothing for us children and grew to be professional tailor, creating custom clothing for her clients. Our family speaks Swiss then learned German and French in the first and second grade. English is my fourth language!
2. Where did you meet your husband?
We grew up in the same town, followed each other around since Kindergarten. My husband’s parents owned a local fashion retail store. We both eventually graduated from our own colleges and met again per coincidence in London, where we studied. We hosted a couple of parties together. No dating yet… no interest… yet! A few years later, a trade show in Zurich Switzerland united us once again. It was there, that we fell in love and have been together, (twenty years), ever since.
3. Why the name AYANA?
The name AYANA was inspired by the "Amaranth" flower, a bloom in Greek mythology that never fades. Reflecting this longevity, AYANA's high quality fashionable UV-Protective apparel personifies the everlasting femininity, beauty and style of today's modern woman. I wanted a short, skin related name, (longevity or never fading), that was easy to pronounce in any language… we also have the advantage of always being listed first since it starts with an “A”!
4. Why sun safe clothing?
When we moved to California six years ago, Frank and I loved the sunny climate. But soon I discovered that my skin was changing. It developed age spots, wrinkles, and a loss of firmness. I have always lived a healthy lifestyle, and since my skin is the most important organ, I like to treat it as my most expensive garment. I learned that it is from permanent exposure to the UV-Rays, even on a simple drive out to Los Angeles. My first reaction was to increase the amount of sunscreen I applied daily. Then I began my search for a simpler alternative. I discovered UV-protective clothing, yet was disappointed in its lack of style. So while visiting Australia, I began business research on UV protective clothing because of the country’s fantastic conceptual vision of sun safety… It was after that trip that I was ready to start my venture!
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
5. How did AYANA team up with the Sun Safety Alliance?
I was looking to team up with a skin cancer awareness organization and contacted the Sun Safety Alliance. After a few great brainstorming sessions, we decided to begin our collaboration.
6. What’s your inspiration for the SSA line’s logo?
We wanted to create a logo that works for men and women; that’s fun and encourages becoming aware of the sun without being afraid of it. I worked with our graphic designer and created a combination of the sun and a cancer cell, that’s right a cancer cell! We all have them in our “system”.
7. What is your vision for AYANA Apparel in the near future
To offer sustainable, fashionable clothing for everyday wear with sun protection for women and children
This is a study by the National Institutes of Health and AVAX Technologies to determine whether M-Vax is effective in shrinking melanomas that have spread (stage IV). To increase it effectiveness, the M-Vax dosing will be followed by administration of low doses of interleukin-2 (IL2), a marketed drug that is known to stimulate immunity and cause some shrinkage of melanomas. This national study is currently recruiting patients who have Stage IV melanoma and who meet the study's other criteria.
M-Vax + Low Dose Interleukin-2 Versus Placebo Vaccine in Metastatic Melanoma in Patients With Stage IV Melanoma
Purpose
Previous studies suggests that M-Vax, a melanoma vaccine prepared from patients own cancer cells, can stimulated patients' immune system to react against their cancer. AVAX has identified a dose and schedule of administration of M-Vax that work optimally. In this study, AVAX will determine whether M-Vax is effective in shrinkage of melanomas that have spread (stage IV). To increase it effectiveness, M-Vax administration will be followed by administration of low doses of interleukin-2 (IL2), a marketed drug that is known to stimulate immunity and cause some shrinkage of melanomas.
Two-thirds of patients will receive M-Vax + IL2, and one-third will receive a placebo vaccine + IL2. The study is blinded so that neither the patients nor their physicians know which material they are receiving.
To be eligible for this study, patients must have at least one melanoma tumor that can be surgically removed and made into a vaccine. In addition, they must have melanoma that has spread to to the lungs or to soft tissue sites (under the skin, on the surface of the skin, lymph nodes). Eligible patients may have previously received one treatment (for example, chemotherapy) for their melanoma.
Side effects of M-Vax are expected to be mild; the most common is the development of sore pimples at the site of vaccine injections. The low dose IL2 may cause some fatigue and other mild symptoms.
It is expected that 387 patients will be treated in this study.
Eligibility
| Genders Eligible for Study: | Both |
| Accepts Healthy Volunteers: | No |
Inclusion Criteria:
Stage IV metastatic melanoma of cutaneous or mucosal origin or without known primary site
- At least one metastatic mass that is surgically resectable, excluding metastases in brain, bowel, or bone
- Successful preparation of a vaccine that meets quality control release criteria
- Following surgery for vaccine preparation, subjects must have at least one measurable metastasis defined by modified RECIST criteria. Non-measurable metastases may also be present. Residual metastases (measurable or non-measurable) must be limited to skin (dermal or subcutaneous), lymph node, or lung, or a combination of these.
- No prior systemic treatment or one prior systemic treatment for metastatic melanoma, not counting post-surgical adjuvant treatment with alpha interferon
- Minimum of one month and maximum of 4 months since the surgery
- Expected survival of at least 6 months
- Karnofsky performance status at least 80
- Signed informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
Failure to prepare a vaccine that meets all quality control release criteria
- Uveal melanoma
- Post-surgical residual metastases in sites other than specified in 6.1
- Brain metastases, current or past (unless successfully treated at least one year prior to enrollment)
- Hepatic transaminase > 2.5 x ULN
- Total bilirubin > 2.0 mg/Dl
- Creatinine > 2.0 mg/Dl
- Hemoglobin <>
- WBC <>
- Platelet count <>
- Limited field radiotherapy, i.e., limited to recent surgical site, less than 4 weeks prior to first dose of vaccine
- Major field radiotherapy less than 6 months prior to first dose of vaccine
- Any systemic treatment for metastatic melanoma, including chemotherapy, cytokines, or investigational drugs less than 2 months prior to first dose of vaccine
- Previous administration of M-Vax
- Prior splenectomy
- Administration of systemic steroids less than 4 weeks prior to first dose of vaccine. Topical steroids are allowed during the study, provided these are not applied to vaccine injection sites. Inhaled aerosol steroids also are allowed during the study.
- Administration of immunosuppressive drugs less than 4 weeks prior to first dose of vaccine
- Administration of antitubercular drugs (e.g., isoniazid, rifampin, streptomycin) less than 4 weeks prior to first dose of vaccine
- HIV 1/2 positive by ELISA, confirmed by Western blot
- Hepatitis B surface antigen or hepatitis C antibody positive
- Other malignancy within 5 years except: curatively treated non-invasive melanoma, non-melanomatous skin cancer, carcinoma in situ of the uterine cervix, or early stage (stage A or B1) prostate cancer
- Autoimmune diseases that would interfere with an immunologic response (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis or ankylosing spondylitis)
- Concurrent medical condition that would preclude compliance or immunologic response to study treatment
- Concurrent serious infection, including active tuberculosis, or other serious medical condition
- Pregnancy or lactation (serum human chorionic gonadotropin [HCG] test must be negative in fertile women at screening visit)
- Known gentamicin allergy
- Anergic, defined by the inability to make a DTH to at least one of the following: candida, mumps, tetanus or trichophyton (based upon availability)
| Contact: Francois Martelet, MD | 215-241-9760 | fmartelet@avax-tech.com |
| United States, Florida | |
| Baptist Cancer Institute | Not yet recruiting |
| Jacksonville, Florida, United States, 32207 | |
| Contact: Troy Guthrie, MD 904-202-7998 Troy.Guthrie@BMCJAX.com | |
| Principal Investigator: Troy Guthrie, MD | |
| United States, Illinois | |
| University of Illinois at Chicago Cancer Center | Recruiting |
| Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60612 | |
| Contact: Cathleen Schaffer, RN 312-413-3863 CSchaffe@uic.edu | |
| Contact: Michael Warso, MD warso@uic.edu | |
| Principal Investigator: Michael A. Warso, MD | |
| Cancer Treatment Centers of American - Midwestern | Recruiting |
| Zion, Illinois, United States, 60099 | |
| Contact: Joy Jardinico, RN 847-731-4143 joy-jardinico@ctca-hope.com | |
| Contact: Stephen Ray, MD stephen.ray@ctca-hope.com | |
| Principal Investigator: Stephen Ray, MD | |
| United States, Kentucky | |
| University of Louisville School of Medicine | Not yet recruiting |
| Louisville, Kentucky, United States, 40202 | |
| Contact: Deborah Hulsewede, CCRC, CCRP 502-629-3308 deborah.hulsewede@nortonhealthcare.org | |
| Principal Investigator: Kelly McMasters, MD | |
| University of Kentucky - Markey Cancer Center | Recruiting |
| Lexington, Kentucky, United States, 40536 | |
| Contact: Heather Dunn 859-257-4464 hldunn2@email.uky.edu | |
| Principal Investigator: John J Rinehart, MD | |
| United States, New Hampshire | |
| Dartmouth-Hitchcock Cancer Center | Recruiting |
| Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States, 03756 | |
| Contact: Dorie Belloni 603-653-3567 Dorothy.R.Belloni@Dartmouth.EDU | |
| Principal Investigator: Marc Ernstoff, MD | |
| United States, Oklahoma | |
| Cancer Treatment Centers of America - SouthWestern | Not yet recruiting |
| Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States, 74133 | |
| Contact: Michele M Sumner, BS 918-286-5450 Michele.Sumner@ctca-hope.com | |
| Contact: Pierre J Greef, MD 918-286-5450 | |
| Principal Investigator: Pierre J. Greef, MD | |
| United States, Pennsylvania | |
| Thomas Jefferson University | Not yet recruiting |
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, 19107 | |
| Contact: Takami Sato, MD 215-955-1752 t_sato@mail.jci.tju.edu | |
| Principal Investigator: Takami Sato, MD | |
| St. Lukes Cancer Center | Recruiting |
| Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States, 18015 | |
| Contact: Kelly Filchner, MSN 610-954-3582 FilchnK@slhn.org | |
| Principal Investigator: Sanjiv Agarwala, MD | |
| University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center | Recruiting |
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, 19104 | |
| Contact: Mary Carberry 215-614-1813 mary.carberryi@uphs.upenn.edu | |
| Principal Investigator: Lynn M Schuchter, MD | |
| United States, Texas | |
| MD Anderson Cancer Center | Recruiting |
| Houston, Texas, United States, 77030 | |
| Contact: Peggy Tong, RN 713-745-5030 PLTong@MDAnderson.org | |
| Principal Investigator: Jeffrey Lee, MD | |
| Belgium | |
| Universite Catholique de Louvain (UCL) | Recruiting |
| Brussels, Belgium, 1200 | |
| Contact: Aline Duquenne 32 2 764 5427 Aline.Duquenne@uclouvain.be | |
| Principal Investigator: Jean-Francois Baurain, MD | |
| Centre Hospitalier Regional de Namur | Recruiting |
| Namur, Belgium, 5000 | |
| Contact: Jean-Phillippe Hermanne, MD 32 81 72 60 30 Hermanne@ideone.BE | |
| Principal Investigator: Jean-Phillippe Hermanne, MD | |
| Study Director: | Francois Martelet, MD | AVAX Technologies |
Sun Safety for Infants, Babies, and Toddlers: By the Skin Cancer Foundation
2 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 9:16 AMStory for the media from the Skin Cancer Foundation
From Sun Safety Alliance Photos
New York, NY (July 1, 2009) – Just one blistering sunburn in childhood more than doubles a person’s chances of developing melanoma later in life. According to one US study, 54 percent of children become sunburned or tanned in their second summer, versus 22 percent in their first.
“Children should not be getting sunburned at any age, especially since there are a range of very effective sun protection methods that can used,” said Perry Robins, MD, President, The Skin Cancer Foundation. “Parents need to be extra vigilant about sun protection all the time.”
Many parents don’t know the best ways to protect their young children. Below are The Skin Cancer Foundation’s recommendations.
Infants
From Sun Safety Alliance Photos
- 0-6 months: Infants under 6 months of age should be kept out of the sun. Their skin is too sensitive for sunscreen. An infant’s skin possesses little melanin, the pigment that gives color to skin, hair and eyes and provides some sun protection. Therefore, babies are especially susceptible to the sun’s damaging effects.
- Use removable mesh window shields to keep direct sunlight from coming in through the windows of your car or invest in UV window film, which can screen almost 100 percent of ultraviolet radiation without reducing visibility.
- Take walks early in the morning before 10 AM or after 4 PM and use a stroller with a sun-protective cover.
- Dress baby in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs.
- Choose a wide-brimmed hat or bonnet that protects the baby’s face, neck, and ears. A baby who wears a hat during the first few months will get used to having it on.
Babies
From Sun Safety Alliance Photos
- 6-12 months: It’s now safe to use sunscreen on babies.
- All the protection methods explained above still apply, however now sunscreen use should be incorporated.
- Apply a broad-spectrum, SPF 15+ sunscreen to areas left uncovered such as baby’s hands. Many companies have tear free formulas that won’t sting baby’s eyes.
- Most importantly, sunscreen must be applied 30 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.
Toddlers/Pre-School Age
From Sun Safety Alliance Photos
- Protecting toddlers from the sun requires a little more thought and effort. It is important to educate your child and caregivers.
- Make sure your child seeks the shade between 10 AM and 4 PM. Check the outdoor area where your child plays to make sure there is adequate shade.
- Make sure toddlers are covered. Long-sleeved, unbleached cotton clothing is cool and comfortable, while also highly protective. Clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) listing on the label offers extra security. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends clothing with a UPF of 30 or higher.
- Don’t forget hats and sunglasses. Choose a wide-brimmed hat that protects face, neck, and ears.
- Water-resistant, spray-on sunscreens are a good choice for toddlers who won’t sit still. Look for sunscreens with an SPF 15 or higher with some combination of the following UVA ingredients: avobenzone, ecamsule (a.k.a. Mexoryl™), oxybenzone, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
“With a little effort and planning, it’s easy for young children to enjoy the outdoors safely,” said Dr. Robins. “Parents need to make it a priority and to also lead by example.”
Now celebrating its 30th year, The Skin Cancer Foundation is committed to educating the public and medical professionals about sun safety. As leaders in the fight against skin cancer, the Foundation is the only global organization solely devoted to the prevention, detection and treatment of the world’s most common cancer. The mission of the Foundation is to decrease the incidence of skin cancer through public and professional education and research.
@Sun_Safety & @AndieBo 2 TWEET Larsen and Talbert Photoshoot on Wednesday July 8th, 2009: Follow #SSA2009
0 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 11:46 PM
In an effort to involve fans in the Andrea's involvement with the Sun Safety Alliance's new fashion forward UV protective clothing line by AYANA apparel, the entire photo shoot will be tweeted.
Fans can follow @Sun_Safety on twitter to receive updates regarding the photo shoots, editorials, press releases, and Sun Safety news.
Fans are also encouraged to search #SSA2009 to become actively involved in the launch and development of the new clothing line.
Andrea Bowen herself also tweets @AndieBo. She recently tweeted about her adventures on Capitol Hill while working to gain support for improved school lunches through the Child Nutrition Act.
@Andiebo: Just met with Aaron Rosenthal and Joel Reithmiller at Rep Hill's office to
co-sponsor HR. 1324. #foodinc #onthehill
Join the conversation, we look forward to meeting you on twitter!
Teen Vogue June/July sends teens mixed messages about sun safety
1 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 9:20 AM |
| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
In an attempt to join the "sun safety" advocacy bandwagon, Teen Vogue published a compelling story which they called: "Cruel Summer, Dying for a Tan". The article is very intelligently written by Beth James. She interviews Kaity Dorsett and Alexa Salvatore, among other teens that have been diagnosed with malignant melanoma. The article points out the terrifying facts that, yes!!! Teens can develop cancer and the article quotes the American Cancer Society in stating that one person dies every hour from skin cancer. Ms. James does a great job informing young adults about the dangers of tanning and the realities behind ultraviolet rays. She stresses the importance of sunscreen and reapplying and using the correct amount of sunscreen as well.
Excellent work Ms. Beth James.
Unfortunately in the same exact issue of Teen Vogue that worked to educate young women about the dangers of skin cancer, Editor in Chief Amy Astley allowed the following image for the spread titled "Summerland":
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
The accompanying text reads:
"Show off a sun-kissed glow in a chic white bikini."
On June 30th, Rachel Saslow of the Washington Post points out that "A caption mentions that the readers should get that glow with L'Oreal self tanning lotion, but that tiny-type disclaimer does little to offset the hypocrisy".
And Rachel is right. How dare Teen Vogue confuse young girls about sun safety. On one page the magazine educates girls about the terrifying realities of skin cancer and the harshness of the sun. On the next page the magazine is taunting the girls with sexy pictures of sun kissed models in skimpy bathing suits under the hot sun; clearly not showing any signs of practicicng Sun Safety whatsoever.
Amy Atsley, we ask you to please use your magazine as a tool to fight skin cancer. Do not send mixed messages to our children. We thouroughly enjoyed your article on melanoma and look forward to more truthful and educational write ups. These enrich the minds of our easily influenced young ones. Yet on the same note, please be careful of the images that you are selling to the same persuadable audience. Skin cancer is real, as your own article points out, and images such as these simply encourage girls to get out to the beaches and soak up some sun. They hinder the reality of skin cancer and give them the impression that, "That sort of thing can't happen to me".
When it can.
And it will.
Please protect yourselves today folks.
Kathryn Morris and Sun Safety Alliance launch clothing line by Ayana Apparel that has met all the requirements for AS/NZ Standard 4339 credentials
0 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 11:04 PM“Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. More than one million cases of skin cancers are diagnosed each year, and one person dies from it every hour. As someone with fair skin, how could I not get involved in trying to prevent something so preventable?”
Kathryn Morris is the spokesperson for the new SSA line by Ayana apparel. She will be photographed by Larsen and Talbert Wednesday, June 8th, 2009. Larsen and Talbert have photographed stars for nationally known clients such as ABC Disney, InStyle, Self, Good Housekeeping, Time, Readers Digest, Esquire, Marie Claire, and many others.
About Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) Testing
Clothing provides one of the most convenient forms of protection against UVR but not all garments offer sufficient sun protection.
Over-exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UV radiation) can cause sunburn, skin damage and an increased risk of developing skin cancer. Clothing provides one of the most convenient forms of protection against UVR but not all garments offer sufficient sun protection. All fabrics have some ability to block UVR and laboratory testing is performed to determine how effective different fabrics are. The ARPANSA UV laboratory performs Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) testing on fabrics and other materials.
The UPF rating indicates how effective a fabric is at blocking out solar ultraviolet radiation. This testing is performed according to Australian/New Zealand standard AS/NZS4399. UPF ratings range from 15 to 50 with higher ratings indicating more effective blocking and therefore better protection for the wearer of a garment made from the fabric. Fabrics that test higher than UPF 50 are rated as UPF 50+.
ARPANSA (formerly the Australian Radiation Laboratory) has performed these measurements on fabrics since the early 1990's. Testing methods developed here were adopted by the Australian Standard; Sun protective clothing - Evaluation and classification AS/NZS4399: 1996. This standard was released in July 1996 to introduce a standardised UPF testing method and it also specifies appropriate wording to be placed on labels of clothing claiming to offer sun protection. Copies of this standard are available from
Standards Australia.
UPF testing involves exposing a fabric to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and measuring how much is transmitted through the sample. Different wavelengths of radiation in the UVR spectrum have different effects on human skin and this is taken into consideration when calculating the UPF rating.
Factors that contribute to the UPF rating of a fabric are:
- Composition of the yarns (cotton, polyester, etc)
- Tightness of the weave or knit (tighter improves the rating)
- Colour (darker colours are generally better)
- Stretch (more stretch lowers the rating)
- Moisture (many fabrics have lower ratings when wet)
- Condition (worn and faded garments may have reduced ratings)
- Finishing (some fabrics are treated with UV absorbing chemicals)
NATA Accredited Laboratory
Visit AyanaApparel.com to view the new clothing line.
Use promo code SSA2009.
Follow @Sun_Safety #SSA2009 for up-to-the minute updates!
Basal Cell Carcinoma—
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Basal cell cancer most often appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, chest, back, and legs. These tumors can have several different forms. The most common appearance of basal cell cancer is that of a small dome-shaped bump that has a pearly white color. Blood vessels may be seen on the surface. Basal cell cancer can also appear as a pimple-like growth that heals, only to come back again and again. A less common form called morpheaform, looks like a smooth white or yellowish waxy scar. A very common sign of basal cell cancer is a sore that bleeds, heals up, only to recur again.
Squamous cell carcinoma—
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
The second most common cancer of the skin. More than 250,000 new squamous cell carcinomas are diagnosed every year in the United States. Middle-aged and elderly people, especially those with fair complexions and frequent sun exposure, are most likely to be affected.
The cancer develops in the outer layer of the skin (the epithelium). Some squamous cell carcinomas arise from small sandpaper-like lesions called solar (sun) or actinic keratosis. It is possible for squamous cell carcinoma to spread to other areas of the body; therefore, early treatment is important.
Melanoma (cutaneous melanoma)—
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Melanoma is a cancer of the pigment producing cells in the skin, known as melanocytes. Cancer is a condition in which one type of cell grows without limit in a disorganized fashion, disrupting and replacing normal tissues and their functions, much like weeds overgrowing a garden. Normal melanocytes reside in the outer layer of the skin and produce a brown pigment called melanin, which is responsible for skin color. Melanoma occurs when melanocytes become cancerous, grow, and invade other tissues.
Melanoma begins on the surface of the skin where it is easy to see and treat. If given time to grow, melanoma can grow down into the skin, ultimately reaching the blood and lymphatic vessels, and apread around the body (metastasize), causing life-threatening illness. It is curable when detected early, but can be fatal if allowed to progress and spread. The goal is to detect melanoma early when it is still on the surface of the skin.
Avoid skin cancer. Use sun screen and always reapply. Wear UV protected clothing. Keep a close eye on your skin throughout the year and check your moles for the ABCs of skin cancer detection!
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| From Sun Safety Alliance Photos |
Friday June 19th, the German parliament passed, by large majority, a law that bans those under eighteen from using "solariums", or what Americans know as "tanning beds". The reason: the younger they are the higher the risk. 14 million German users are between the ages of 18 and 45.
"If people under 35 regularly use solariums, the risk of getting at some point in life malignant melanoma, the third deadliest cancer that there is, rises by 75 percent," the ADP's Professor Eckhard Breitbart told reporters.
Germany will soon introduce the right to a skin cancer screening every two years for all people over the age of thirty five. German has also been running a highly effective campaign to increase public awareness of the dangers behind skin cancer, develop by Y&R Germany.
Just because American legislative does not act as quickly as Germany does to the fatalities that occur because of tanning beds, does not mean that the issue is not as severe. Tanning beds cause skin cancer, and skin cancer kills. If you want to avoid skin cancer, yet still want a gorgeous summer glow, try sunless tanning. MayoClinic.com provides readers with a great article on the facts behind sunless tanning:
"Sunless tanning products no longer cause an orange-brown, streaky appearance. Today the products offer an even, natural-looking tan if they're applied correctly and carefully. For best results, follow these tips:
- Choose a light- or medium-toned product, which tends to look more natural.
- Before using the product, wash and exfoliate your skin with a wash cloth or sponge to remove excess dead skin cells. Women should shave their legs for an even application.
- Apply the sunless tanning product evenly and lightly. Use less product on dry skin or thickened skin, such as over your ankles, knees and elbows. These areas tend to absorb more product.
- After you apply the product to your face and body, wash your hands with soap and water to avoid coloring your palms. Be sure to remove any product from under your fingernails. Then use a cotton ball to apply the sunless tanner to the top of each hand.
- To prevent staining your clothes, wait to dress until the sunless tanner dries completely, about 15 to 20 minutes
SELF Magazine, MSNBC, and Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi work to educate the public about the severity of melanoma.
1 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 10:27 AMDr. Elizabeth Tanzi, (@SkinLaserMD), is an internationally-known author and lecturer on cosmetic dermatology and cutaneous laser surgery. She joined the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in 2001 and currently serves as the Co-director of Laser Surgery. Dr. Tanzi also holds a position as clinical Instructor in the Department of Dermatology at Johns Hopkins Hospital Center. Dr. Tanzi pursued her medical education at the Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, New York, where she graduated in the Alpha Omega Alpha. You can visit her website as well at skinlaser.com
Dr. Tanzi is also a skin cancer survivor.
She was recently featured in SELF magazine as well as on the Today show to educate audiences about the seriousness of skin cancer. During the interview, Dr. Tanzi draws attention to many excellent points, that we at the Sun Safety Alliance also hold strong to be advocates of.
"1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed yearly". Skin cancer is on the rise, and people must become smarter while in the sun. "People need to hear about the number of increased cases of skin cancer". Especially melanoma. It is "the most preventable and curable form of cancer", but also the most deadly. The Skin Cancer Foundation has stated that “one person every hour dies from melanoma”.
"30 SPF and up will block 97% of the sun's rays". Fight melanoma by applying and applying and reapplying. When most apply sunscreen, they only apply bare minimum. It's greasy and sticks to every thing. Sand and sunscreen are among the most obnoxious combination. Yet did you know you are supposed to apply an ounce of sunscreen every time you apply and reapply? "Reapply an ounce! That is so much!"
To encourage readers to protect themselves from melanoma, SELF-magazine has offered, in accordance with a recent Harvard study, to send a text message reminder about reapplying sunscreen. If you text SELFSKIN to 467467, you will receive four weekly alerts reminding readers to reapply.
“The only safe tan is a fake tan”. Dr. Tanzi explains that tanning beds are the equivalent of smoking and should not be used. Many young people today are in denial that skin cancer is real and they subject themselves to skin cancer by roasting in tanning beds. They do not understand the severity, look through some of the quotes pulled from twitter:
@Farraaa: “tanning.. yay skin cancer”
@taylordawnn: “tanning again. Skin cnacer? Probably”
@adeledgirltellem“so one of my best friends has skin cancer & i promised i'd stop tanning & such. but i cant do it! sorry bbygrl- LAYING OUT @ the beach <3
Though it is frustrating that a twitter search on "skin cancer" brings up a number of people that are ignorant to the realities of the disease, there are a few that advocate sun safety and skin cancer awareness. Those of us that have the knowledge and the evidence that skin cancer is on the rise must continue to educate those around us. Because many are unaware the severity of skin cancer and it's our job to inform them.
Desperate Housewives' Andrea Bowen Helps Sun Safety Alliance to Launch UV Protective Fashion Line
5 comments Posted by Sun Safety Alliance at 2:25 AM |
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in collaboration with the Entertainment Industries Council, Inc. (EIC). SSA has teamed up with AYANA Apparel
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to provide fashion-forward UV-Protective t-shirts that protect your skin while maintaining your sense of style.
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In addition to acting, Bowen is a strong supporter for sun safety and skin cancer prevention efforts. Bowen says that the shirts not only carry a message about sun protection, they can protect from the damaging effects of the sun and still allow you to stay fashionable. "These are not just message or logo shirts. They're flattering on you and they block the UV rays that usually get through normal tops," she said.
The shirts carry an SPF protection of 30-50 and will help to raise money for prevention efforts. AYANA's web site is located at www.ayanashop.com.
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Purchases of the SSA line and other clothing available on the site will result in a donation to SSA by using discount or coupon code SSA09.
You can read the official press release here
