The Skin Cancer Foundation, founded in 1979 by dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Perry Robins, MD, is a global organization solely devoted to educating the public and medical community about skin cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The foundation's professional membership includes dermatologists, Mohs surgeons, plastic surgeons and other medical professionals working to fight skin cancer. Headquartered in New York City, the foundation is a 501 public charity.
Background statistics
Each year in the U.S., nearly 5 million patients are treated for skin cancer and more than 16,000 people die from the disease. The primary cause of skin cancer is ultraviolet radiation from the sun and indoor tanning beds. The incidence and impact of skin cancer can be dramatically reduced through education, lifestyle changes, and early detection.
Public information
Annually, the foundation distributes over two million pieces of medically reviewed educational information on sun protection and skin cancer. The annual Journal and the newsletters are distributed regularly to most dermatologists' offices nationwide. In addition, the Foundation's educational materials are distributed in multiple languages through corporate partnerships and programs such as The Road to Healthy Skin Tour, an annual skin cancer screening program across the United States.
Research
Funding is provided annually for research and clinical studies in medical institutions throughout the U.S. Since 1981, more than $1.5 million has been awarded to fund over 150 projects. Proposals are evaluated by the Foundation's Research Grants Review Committee.
Advocacy
The foundation is a core member of the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention, a coordinating body that seeks to establish a national action agenda on skin cancer and stricter regulations of UV tanning beds and lamps. In May 2014, the Food and Drug Administration of the United States issued an order to re-classify tanning beds from class 1 to class II devices. On November 25, 2014, the Sunscreen Innovation Act was passed, streamlining the FDA's review process of new sunscreens and setting deadlines for decisions on new applications.
International outreach
Public education abroad is sponsored by the foundation’s International Advisory Council, representing 23 countries. The Foundation sponsors the annual International Dermatology Exchange Program and the biennial World Congress on Cancers of the Skin, which convenes in different countries around the world. The Skin Cancer Foundation has received the American Academy of Dermatology’s Excellence in Education Award and 14 Gold Triangle Awards for Community Service.
