Skin Cancer Foundation

Skin Cancer Foundation
Name	Skin Cancer Foundation
Founded	1979
Founder	Perry Robins
Location	New York City
Key people	Deborah S. Sarnoff (President)
Focus	Skin cancer prevention, detection, education
Website	skincancer.org

Skin Cancer Foundation. It is a leading global organization solely dedicated to the prevention, early detection, and treatment of the world's most common cancer. Founded in 1979 by a pioneering dermatologic surgeon, the organization provides public and medical education, drives behavioral change, and advocates for sun-safe policies. Its mission is rooted in empowering people to take a proactive approach to daily sun protection and the early detection of both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers.

History

The organization was established in 1979 by Dr. Perry Robins, a professor at New York University School of Medicine, following his experiences treating patients with advanced skin cancers. Its creation was a response to the growing scientific evidence linking ultraviolet radiation from the sun and tanning beds to skin cancer. A pivotal early achievement was the development of the first standardized system for the early detection of melanoma, known as the ABCDEs of melanoma. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, it expanded its public education efforts, significantly raising awareness about the dangers of excessive sun exposure. Key milestones include launching its official journal, *The Melanoma Letter*, and establishing the prestigious Robins Award for outstanding contributions to the field.

Mission and activities

The core mission is to decrease the incidence of skin cancer through public and professional education and advocacy. A central activity is the certification of sun protection products through its Seal of Recommendation program, which evaluates sunscreens, clothing, and window film. It provides extensive resources for both the public and healthcare professionals, including the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention. The organization also sets rigorous standards for skin cancer screening protocols and publishes patient guides on conditions like actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma. Advocacy efforts include supporting legislation, such as bans on indoor tanning for minors, in various states and promoting policies for sun-safe environments in schools and workplaces.

Public awareness campaigns

The foundation runs high-impact, multimedia campaigns to shift public behavior. Its flagship campaign, "Practice Safe Sun," encourages daily sunscreen use. The "Go with Your Own Glow" initiative promotes the message that natural skin tone is beautiful, challenging the desire for a tan. Each May, during Melanoma Awareness Month, it intensifies efforts with the "#SkinCheckChallenge" to encourage regular self-examinations. It also partners with major events like the US Open (tennis) to provide free skin cancer screenings. Campaigns often feature celebrities and influencers, such as Nicole Kidman and Bobbi Brown, to amplify the sun safety message to diverse audiences.

Sun safety recommendations

The organization's guidelines form a comprehensive sun protection strategy. They advise seeking shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest, and wearing protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses. A cornerstone recommendation is the daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher for daily use, and SPF 30 or higher for extended outdoor activity. It emphasizes the importance of reapplying sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating. The guidelines also strongly advise against the use of indoor tanning beds, which are classified as carcinogenic by the World Health Organization.

Research funding and initiatives

While primarily an educational body, it supports vital research through targeted grants and awards. It funds clinical studies on early detection methods, novel treatments for advanced squamous cell carcinoma, and public health interventions. The annual Research Grants Award program supports young investigators in dermatology and oncology. It also commissions and disseminates reviews of the latest scientific literature, such as studies on the efficacy of zinc oxide in sunscreens or the genetic factors in familial melanoma. These initiatives help bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and real-world clinical and public health practice.

Recognition and partnerships

The organization is widely recognized as an authoritative voice in skin cancer prevention. It collaborates with leading institutions like the American Academy of Dermatology, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the American Cancer Society. Corporate partnerships with brands such as Coolibar, La Roche-Posay, and Supergoop! help disseminate sun-safe products and messages. It has received awards for its public service announcements and educational materials. The foundation's president, Dr. Deborah S. Sarnoff, is a frequent speaker at major medical conferences, including those of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

Category:Medical and health organizations based in New York City Category:Organizations established in 1979 Category:Skin cancer organizations