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Life After Treatment: Resources for Skin Cancer Survivors

Becoming a skin cancer survivor is not just about defeating a disease; it’s about transitioning from one phase of your life to another. Many melanoma survivors we’ve talked to have said that transitioning into survivorship, despite being the best possible outcome, has its own unique challenges. Suddenly, the care team that had been seeing them regularly is no longer part of their life. And then there’s scanxiety, or the anxiety that many people struggle with when it’s time for their annual maintenance scans.

Kathy Barnard, founder of Save Your Skin Foundation, understands this all too well as she is herself a melanoma stage 4 survivor. That’s why, when she decided to start Save Your Skin Foundation in 2006, she knew she wanted to make sure the foundation supported skin cancer patients throughout the whole continuum of their journey, including survivorship. She also wanted to help survivors and patients connect with each other so they would feel less alone in their journey.

This blog post will give you an overview of the resources we’ve developed to support melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer survivors. We hope you will find something that can help you on your journey.

Resources for Skin Cancer Survivors

Survivorship Resources

Our Survivorship page lists several resources created specifically for cancer survivors.

skin cancer survivor
skin cancer survivor

Self-Care After Cancer

Our Self-Care After Cancer page offers tons of information for those in remission, including a Q&A that answers common questions asked by new skin cancer survivors.

I’m Living Proof

I’m Living Proof is an interactive map that allows you to find other skin cancer survivors. Simply click on a star to read their story. You can even request to connect with them if you would like to know more or ask a question. We hope these stories of strength and resilience will offer you support and inspiration as you navigate your own path.

skin cancer survivors

Monthly Fireside Chats

Join our Monthly Patient Fireside Chats which have a small standing group of core hosts & new topics every first Thursday of the month. These informal chats are open to patients, survivors, caregivers and family members touched by melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancer, and ocular melanoma. They are discussions about life after a cancer diagnosis, including sharing experiences with treatment options, survivorship, navigating the healthcare system, and any other concern that you might have. It is also a great opportunity to meet other patients and survivors from across Canada.

Webinars

Save your Skin Foundation webinars are a great way to stay up-to-date by listening to patients, survivors, doctors, and pharmaceutical company executives discuss the melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancer, and ocular melanoma landscape. Each webinar features a variety of experts and discusses a different topic.

skin cancer survivor
skin cancer survivor

One-on-one Support

Transitioning into survivorship has its own challenges. Save Your Skin Foundation wishes to bring support to all those in remission. We invite all ocular melanoma, melanoma, and non-melanoma skin cancer patients, at any stage, to get in touch.

As you navigate the complex landscape of life after skin cancer treatment, remember that you are not alone. We invite you to connect with us and fellow survivors, and to help us in creating a community where hope and resilience abound as you embrace this new chapter in your journey.

Get Support

Save Your Skin Foundation wishes to bring hope and support to all those touched by melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancers, or ocular melanoma – whether they are newly diagnosed, currently undergoing treatment, in remission or referred to as “NED” (no evidence of disease).

WE INVITE ALL SKIN CANCER PATIENTS, AT ANY STAGE, TO GET IN TOUCH.

We are here to help. Call us at 1-800-460-5832 or email info@saveyourskin.ca

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Melanoma on the Leg: Understanding Detection and Prognosis

Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that can occur anywhere on the body. While it often develops in areas exposed to the sun, such as the back, legs, arms, and face, it can also appear in less sun-exposed regions. In this blog post, we will explore the key aspects of melanoma on the leg, including its appearance, detection, and prognosis.

Melanoma on the Leg: What You Need to Know

Location Matters for Melanoma Development

Melanomas most commonly develop in areas that have been exposed to the sun, including the legs. It’s essential to recognize that melanomas can also occur in areas with minimal sun exposure, such as the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, and fingernail beds. These hidden melanomas are more frequently found in people with darker skin.

Early Detection is Crucial

Early detection of melanoma can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. It’s important to regularly examine your skin for anything new, changing, or unusual, not only on sun-exposed areas but also on sun-protected regions. For women, it’s worth noting that melanomas frequently appear on the legs, while men tend to develop them on the trunk.[1] However, melanomas can arise anywhere on the skin, even in areas not directly exposed to the sun.

Melanoma on leg

Appearance of Melanoma on the Leg

Melanoma on the leg may present and behave differently in different people. Characteristics include:

  • Spots, sores, moles, or bumps on the skin that change in shape, size, or color
  • Red or brown colored scaly skin
  • Skin that oozes, bleeds, swells, or may feel painful, itchy, or tender[2]

 

Prognosis and Survival

Location plays a crucial role in the prognosis and survival of melanoma patients. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, having melanoma on the arms or legs generally has a better prognosis than having melanoma on the central part of the body, head, or neck.[3]

Early Detection and Awareness Are Key for Melanomas on the Leg

In conclusion, melanoma can affect any part of the body, including the legs. Early detection and awareness of the appearance of melanomas on the leg are vital for increasing the chances of successful treatment. Regular skin self-exams and understanding the different types and locations of melanoma can make a significant difference in achieving a positive prognosis.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional if you notice any unusual skin changes or have concerns about melanoma. Your doctor can provide a proper diagnosis, discuss treatment options, and guide you toward the best course of action for your specific situation.‌

Get Support

Save Your Skin Foundation wishes to bring hope and support to all those touched by melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancers, or ocular melanoma – whether they are newly diagnosed, currently undergoing treatment, in remission or referred to as “NED” (no evidence of disease).

WE INVITE ALL SKIN CANCER PATIENTS, AT ANY STAGE, TO GET IN TOUCH.

We are here to help. Call us at 1-800-460-5832 or email info@saveyourskin.ca

Learn about other types of skin cancer:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

BCC is the most common cancer in the world, with incidence exceeding that of all other cancers combined. BCC can develop anywhere, though it is most commonly found in sun exposed areas.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which begins in the keratinocyte cells, is the second most common skin cancer. While SCC usually develops in areas that have been exposed to the sun, it can also manifest in burn or wound sites.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare non-melanoma skin cancer. It can develop in the merkel cells, which are found in the deepest areas of the epidermis and hair follicles.

[1] “Melanoma Warning Signs and Images.” The Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 May 2023, www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/melanoma/melanoma-warning-signs-and-images/. Accessed October 24, 2023.

[2] “Skin Cancer on Leg: Appearance and More.” Medical News Today, 17 Apr. 2023, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/skin-cancer-on-leg. Accessed 24 Oct. 2023.

[3] Lee, Sid. “Prognosis and Survival for Melanoma Skin Cancer.” Canadian Cancer Society, 2015, cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/skin-melanoma/prognosis-and-survival. Accessed 24 Oct. 2023.

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Is Skin Cancer Dangerous? Understanding the Risks and Prognosis

Skin cancer is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening disease that affects millions of people each year. The question often arises: “Is skin cancer dangerous?” To address this concern, we’ll explore the various types of skin cancer and their potential risks and prognosis.

Melanoma:

Melanoma is one of the most serious forms of skin cancer. The Canadian Cancer Society estimates that it caused 1,200 deaths in Canada in 2022. The outlook for individuals with melanoma can vary significantly. Most melanomas can be cured if detected and treated before they have a chance to spread. Early detection and removal of melanoma are essential for a full recovery.

Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, BCC is the most common form of skin cancer, affecting 50,000-60,000 Canadians every year[1]. BCC is generally considered less dangerous than melanoma. However, if not detected and treated early, it can become locally destructive and, in rare instances, metastasize.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):

SCC is the second most common form of skin cancer, with an estimated 20,000 cases diagnosed each year in the Canada[2]. Like BCC, SCC can be locally destructive and sometimes metastasize if not detected and treated early.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC):

MCC is a relatively rare but highly aggressive skin cancer. MCCs are at high risk of recurring and metastasizing, emphasizing the critical importance of early detection and treatment.

Prognostic Factors

The prognosis and survival rates for skin cancer are influenced by several factors, as outlined by the Canadian Cancer Society:

Location: Skin cancer on certain areas, such as around the eyes, nose, lips, ears, scalp, fingers, toes, and genitals, may have a higher risk of recurrence or metastasis.

Size and Depth: Larger tumors and those that have grown deep into the skin are more likely to come back.

Recurrence: Skin cancer that returns after treatment may have a less favorable prognosis.

Type or Subtype: Some subtypes of BCC and SCC tend to grow more quickly and have different outcomes.

Immunosuppression: Weakened immune systems can impact the prognosis.

Stage: The stage at diagnosis is a significant determinant of prognosis.

Outlook for Skin Cancer In general, the outlook for skin cancer is positive. The 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99% if detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. For BCC and SCC, the outlook is favorable, especially when diagnosed early. However, as skin cancer advances, the prognosis may vary. In conclusion, most skin cancers are curable, especially when detected and treated in their early stages. Early detection, regular check-ups with a dermatologist, and prompt treatment are essential in ensuring a positive outcome. While skin cancer can be a serious diagnosis, advances in medical treatments offer hope and optimism for those affected by this condition. If you have concerns about your specific case, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance on your prognosis and treatment options.

In summary, in answering the question “is skin cancer dangerous?” one must consider various elements such as the type, stage, and other prognostic factors. Melanoma is considered the most dangerous of the common skin cancers, while BCC and SCC can also pose significant risks if not detected and treated promptly. Understanding these risks and working with a healthcare provider to assess prognosis based on individual factors are essential steps in managing and treating skin cancer. Early detection remains the key to improving the prognosis and ensuring a better outcome.

Get Support

Save Your Skin Foundation wishes to bring hope and support to all those touched by melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancers, or ocular melanoma – whether they are newly diagnosed, currently undergoing treatment, in remission or referred to as “NED” (no evidence of disease).

WE INVITE ALL SKIN CANCER PATIENTS, AT ANY STAGE, TO GET IN TOUCH.

We are here to help. Call us at 1-800-460-5832 or email info@saveyourskin.ca

Learn About Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a drug treatment that uses the human body’s own immune system to fight cancer.  It may be administered to patients intravenously in the Chemotherapy Unit of the hospital, but it is not the same as chemotherapy.

Learn About Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy drugs are designed to specifically target cancer cells. For melanoma, these drugs target the activity of a specific or unique feature of melanoma cancer cells.

Learn About Clinical Trials

New treatments are tested in clinical trials before they are approved for general use. There are safeguards in place to ensure clinical trials are as safe as possible and meet medical ethical standards. Participating in a trial can be a way to have access to potentially helpful new therapies you couldn’t get otherwise.

[1] “Basal Cell Carcinoma.” Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation, 26 Mar. 2020, www.canadianskincancerfoundation.com/skin-cancer/basal-cell-carcinoma/. Accessed 20 Oct. 2023.

[2] “Squamous Cell Carcinoma.” Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation, 26 Mar. 2020, www.canadianskincancerfoundation.com/skin-cancer/squamous-cell-carcinoma/. Accessed 20 Oct. 2023.

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Is Skin Cancer Curable?

Skin cancer is a prevalent form of cancer that affects millions of people worldwide. In Canada, about 80,000 people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year.[1] Skin cancer encompasses various types, with the most common being basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with skin cancer, you may be wondering “is skin cancer curable?” The outlook for individuals with skin cancer depends on several factors, including early detection, type, stage, and treatment. Let’s explore what the experts have to say.

 

Early Detection is Key

According to the Cleveland Clinic, nearly all skin cancers can be cured if they’re treated before they have a chance to spread. This emphasizes the crucial role of early detection. The earlier skin cancer is found and removed, the better the chances of a full recovery. It’s essential to schedule regular check-ups with a dermatologist to ensure that any potential issues are identified promptly. If you notice something unusual on your skin, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor.

 

Types of Skin Cancer

As noted by the Cancer Research UK, different types of skin cancer have varying prognoses:

 

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

BCC is highly curable, with an extremely low likelihood of spreading to other parts of the body. Most cases can be treated effectively by removing the cancerous tissue along with a small margin of surrounding healthy skin.

 

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

SCC is also typically curable, with a high success rate in treatment. In some instances where SCC has spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body, it may still be curable through appropriate treatment such as surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or cryotherapy.[2]

 

Melanoma

Early stage melanoma is often curable through surgery.[3] Among the surgical techniques available for melanoma, wide excision is commonly recommended. This procedure involves the complete removal of the cancerous tissue. More advanced melanoma will often require additional forms of treatment, such a s lymph node dissections, immunotherapy and targeted therapy.

Prognostic Factors

The prognosis for non-melanoma skin cancers is generally excellent, but various factors can influence the outcome, as explained by the Canadian Cancer Society. These factors include:

Location: Skin cancer on certain areas, such as around the eyes, nose, lips, ears, scalp, fingers, toes, and genitals, may have a higher risk of recurrence or metastasis.

Size and Depth: Larger tumors and those that have grown deep into the skin are more likely to come back.

Recurrence: Skin cancer that returns after treatment may have a less favorable prognosis.

Type or Subtype: Some subtypes of BCC and SCC tend to grow more quickly and have different outcomes.

Immunosuppression: Weakened immune systems can impact the prognosis.

Stage: The stage at diagnosis is a significant determinant of prognosis.

Outlook for Skin Cancer In general, the outlook for skin cancer is positive. The 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99% if detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. For BCC and SCC, the outlook is favorable, especially when diagnosed early. However, as skin cancer advances, the prognosis may vary. In conclusion, most skin cancers are curable, especially when detected and treated in their early stages. Early detection, regular check-ups with a dermatologist, and prompt treatment are essential in ensuring a positive outcome. While skin cancer can be a serious diagnosis, advances in medical treatments offer hope and optimism for those affected by this condition. If you have concerns about your specific case, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance on your prognosis and treatment options.

Is Skin Cancer Curable?

In general, the outlook for skin cancer is positive. The 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99% if detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. For BCC and SCC, the outlook is favorable, especially when diagnosed early. However, as skin cancer advances, the prognosis may vary.

In conclusion, most skin cancers are curable, especially when detected and treated in their early stages. Early detection, regular check-ups with a dermatologist, and prompt treatment are essential in ensuring a positive outcome. While skin cancer can be a serious diagnosis, advances in medical treatments offer hope and optimism for those affected by this condition.

Please remember that the statistics and opinions cited on this page are general, and do not apply to every person’s experience of skin cancer. And if you have concerns about your specific case, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance on your prognosis and treatment options.

Get Support

Save Your Skin Foundation wishes to bring hope and support to all those touched by melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancers, or ocular melanoma – whether they are newly diagnosed, currently undergoing treatment, in remission or referred to as “NED” (no evidence of disease).

WE INVITE ALL SKIN CANCER PATIENTS, AT ANY STAGE, TO GET IN TOUCH.

We are here to help. Call us at 1-800-460-5832 or email info@saveyourskin.ca

Learn More About Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a drug treatment that uses the human body’s own immune system to fight cancer.  It may be administered to patients intravenously in the Chemotherapy Unit of the hospital, but it is not the same as chemotherapy.

Learn More About Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy drugs are designed to specifically target cancer cells. For melanoma, these drugs target the activity of a specific or unique feature of melanoma cancer cells.

Learn More About Clinical Trials

New treatments are tested in clinical trials before they are approved for general use. There are safeguards in place to ensure clinical trials are as safe as possible and meet medical ethical standards. Participating in a trial can be a way to have access to potentially helpful new therapies you couldn’t get otherwise.

[1] “Skin Cancer.” Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation, www.canadianskincancerfoundation.com/skin-cancer/. Accessed 9 Oct. 2023.

[2] “Is Skin Cancer Curable.” Medical News Today, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-skin-cancer-curable. Accessed 9 Oct. 2023.

[3] “Melanoma Overview.” Skin Cancer Foundation, www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/melanoma/. Accessed 9 Oct. 2023.

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Letter from the President of the Save Your Skin Foundation

Happy new year!

We are delighted to announce that the Save Your Skin Foundation is now officially ten years old! It has been an incredible honour to represent melanoma patients, caregivers, and survivors across Canada and to be a voice for those who have lost their battle with the disease.

2017 will be another exciting year for the melanoma landscape, with increasing availability of innovative treatment options. As survival rates are taking an upturn due to these new treatments, we are excited to see that our focus now includes supporting a growing community of melanoma survivors. Hope for survival has become a viable option.

This progress comes with challenges. Treatments are still expensive, and the sequencing of treatments and timely negotiations continue to be problematic. Ensuring equal timely access of treatments to people who need them always has been, and continues to be, our primary goal. In 2017, we look forward to working on these challenges with our patients, caregivers, physicians, partners, and decision makers. When we were a small organisation in 2006, our goal was to provide compassionate care and support to those touched by melanoma; today, we are proud to say that we are able to do so collaboratively with the melanoma community.

We could not have come this far without your support. To all of our corporate and pharmaceutical funders, and every person who has donated: thank you. To every member of government and medical professional or scientist we have worked with: thank you. Most importantly, thank you to every patient who has ever contacted the Save Your Skin Foundation. We learn something new from every patient we encounter, regardless of your level of involvement with us.

By working as a team over the past ten years, we have made great strides in the treatment of melanoma and other skin cancers. By doing the same in 2017, we can only continue to make progress towards eliminating this disease and making a difference in the lives of many.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Barnard

 

Save Your Skin Founder and President Kathleen Barnard presents at the 2017 Canadian Melanoma Conference

Save Your Skin Founder and President Kathleen Barnard presents at the 2017 Canadian Melanoma Conference

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Save Your Skin Weekly Flashback! [August 14-20th!]

Welcome to the Save Your Skin Foundation media flashback- your weekly guide to the melanoma landscape, and the activities of the Save Your Skin Foundation! This week, we are very excited to announce the launch of our joint project with Novartis Pharmaceuticals, #MelanomaThroughMyLens! The photo diary beautifully illustrates the journeys of six Canadians’ battle with melanoma, including Kathleen Barnard and Danika Garneau of Save Your Skin. If you are interested in learning more about the Save Your Skin survivor community, check out our I’m Living Proof initiative!

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Friday, August 26th and Save Your Skin’s next webinar! This post-ASCO review will feature Dr. Omid Hamid, Director of the Melanoma Center at the Angeles Clinic and Research Institute! More details can be found in the banner below.

syspostscsowebinar

 

Here are some links we shared with you this week:

Our pal Natalie Richardson’s blog about the #MelanomaThroughMyLens project over at The Impatient Patient!

This University of California San Francisco article which predicts immunotherapy response in melanoma

This Newsmax Health article about sun damage removal procedures

This article on BBC News about the importance of sun safety for motorists

This blog post on Everyday Maeve about Sun Angels UV protective arm sleeves for kids!

This OncLive article about the rapid pace at which new treatment options are approved

This article in Melanoma News Today reporting a study by the Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital of The University of Sydney about the life quality improvement of patients receiving Opdivo

 

Thanks for reading, stay sun safe out there!

 

sunsafebeachbackground

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Moles and Skin Self-Examination

Moles are the most common indication of melanoma and other skin cancers; luckily, they can be kept track of with skin self-examinations. According to the National Cancer Institute, those with more than 50 common moles have an increased chance of developing melanoma (“Common Moles, Dysplastic Nevi, and Risk of Melanoma”), which is why it is important to self-examine your skin (and your loved one’s skin!) every month.

There are no hard and fast visual rules about which moles might and might not develop into melanoma, however there are some guidelines you can follow when self-examining your skin to judge if any of your moles should be checked out by a physician.

Firstly, there are two kinds of moles. Common moles are, as the name suggests, common and less likely to develop into skin cancer (even though instances of common moles developing into melanoma do occur). The other kind of mole, the dysplastic nevus (plural nevi), has an abnormal appearance in comparison to the common mole. While dysplastic nevi are more likely to develop into skin cancer than common moles are, dysplastic nevi are not a definite sign of skin cancer. However, it is important to pay particular attention to changes in dysplastic nevi during your self-examinations.

Check out our page Skin Check Guide for more information!

The National Cancer Institute recommends that you look for the following changes in both common moles and dysplastic nevi, and to see a physician if any one of them occurs:

  • The color changes
  • It gets smaller or bigger
  • It changes in shape, texture, or height
  • The skin on the surface becomes dry or scaly
  • It becomes hard or feels lumpy
  • It starts to itch
  • It bleeds or oozes

(“Common Moles, Dysplastic Nevi, and Risk of Melanoma”. National Cancer Institute)

In addition to these changes, there are some more obvious signs that a mole may be developing into melanoma. Be aware that there are several types of melanoma and skin cancer, which manifest in disparate ways; it is important to track all changes on your skin, even if they do not appear to be indicative of melanoma. A good rule to follow here is the ABCDE’s of early melanoma detection, which the National Cancer Institute identifies as the following:

  • Asymmetry. The shape of one half does not match the other half.
  • Border that is irregular. The edges are often ragged, notched, or blurred in outline. The pigment may spread into the surrounding skin.
  • Color that is uneven. Shades of black, brown, and tan may be present. Areas of white, gray, red, pink, or blue may also be seen.
  • Diameter. There is a change in size, usually an increase. Melanomas can be tiny, but most are larger than 6 millimeters wide (about 1/4 inch wide).
  • Evolving. The mole has changed over the past few weeks or months.

(“Common Moles, Dysplastic Nevi, and Risk of Melanoma”. National Cancer Institute)

 

Tips for an effective self-examination

Now that you have an idea of what to look for, it’s important to get the most out of your monthly self-examination as possible. Here are some tips for being as thorough as possible:

  • Use a full length and handheld mirror
  • Perform your self-examination in a well lit area
  • Have someone else check areas you can’t see
  • Write down and take photos of any new discoveries, such as changes or new moles; this will be helpful if you need to contact your physician
  • Remember to check often forgotten areas such as: fingernails and toenails, scalp (using a comb and/or blowdryer), the bottoms of feet and in between toes, ears, and underarms

Thank you for reading, and we hope this post encourages awareness and skin self-examinations! If you would like more information, look to one of our sources below. While the principles of self-examination are universal, be aware that not every website we source content from is Canadian.

 

Common Moles, Dysplastic Nevi, and Risk of Melanoma”. National Cancer Institute. 11.01.11.

How to Check your Skin for Skin Cancer”. National Cancer Institute. 09.16.11.

About Melanoma: Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma”. NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Melanoma. 2014: National Comprehensive Cancer Network Foundation.

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Save Your Skin Weekly Flashback [June 25th-July 1st, 2016]

Welcome to the Save Your Skin Foundation media flashback- your weekly guide to the melanoma landscape, and the activities of the Save Your Skin Foundation! It’s an exciting week for the skin cancer community, with the Post-ASCO 2016 Conference in Munich, Germany and the Summit for Cancer Immunotherapy (Canadian Cancer Immunotherapy Consortium and BioCanRx) in Halifax, Nova Scotia, which Save Your Skin Founder Kathy Barnard opened with a discussion of life “beyond the curve” of melanoma. Keep an eye on our facebook page and twitter for updates on both conferences!

We are also excited to announce that we have been featured in the Summer 2016 issue of Canadian Skin, which includes a profile on the Save Your Skin Foundation and a testimonial from one of our board members, Christian Mosley!

Finally, we are still running our survey on sun safety behaviour, which you can fill out here. We appreciate it!

immunotherapysummit

 

Here are some links and images we shared with you this week:

 

– This image from Post-ASCO in Munich, which suggests an alteration to the ABCDE (now the ABCD!) rules of clinical mole recognition:

newabcd

This article from Modern Medicine Network outlining the S3 international guidelines for actinic keratosis

This article from Dermatology News reporting the findings of a study done by the US National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program (SEER), which “highlight[s] the heavy death toll of thin melanomas”

This article from Ecancernews reporting the suggested links between immunotherapy drugs, such as ipilimumab and nivolumab, and arthritis

This News Wire article announcing that Merck has approved Keytruda for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma that have not been treated with ipilimumab

This article in Bel Marra Health suggesting that the development of vitiligo may be indicative of immunotherapy response

This article in Trib Live about awesome Mohs histologist Danielle Deroy Pirain, who had a sunscreen dispenser installed in Mt Lebanon Park, Pennsylvania!

This link to the Aim at Melanoma Foundation’s Memorial Wall. If you would like to include a loved one’s name on the Memorial Wall, you can do so here.

-And this Fierce Medical Devices article about the partnership between Australia’s IBM Research and Melanoma Institute Australia to build on IBM’s MoleMap, which seeks to identify patterns in early stage melanoma

 

 

Thank you for reading, be sun safe out there!

 

sunsafety

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Save Your Skin Weekly Flashback [June 18-24, 2016]

Welcome to the Save Your Skin Foundation media flashback- your weekly guide to the melanoma landscape, and the activities of the Save Your Skin Foundation! It’s the first week of summer in the Western world, which means it’s definitely time to start thinking about sun safety! Check out our recent blog about sun safety here. We’re also running a summer sun safety behaviour survey, which we would love for you to fill out! You can find it here.

 

If you missed the flashback last week, it is our pleasure to inform you that Save Your Skin Founder Kathy Barnard was awarded a BC Community Achievement Award in May! Shaw TV will be airing the event for the rest of June and into July; a broadcasting schedule can be found here.
Here are some images and links we shared with you this week:
melanomaecard

  • This cute video from Leo Pharmaceuticals about sun safety
  • This article from Sundicators about protecting your skin from the sun 
  • The American Academy of Dermatology’s new Melanoma PSA, “‘Arms’” 
  • This link to the draft of the Government of Canada’s Guidelines for Tanning Equipment Owners, Operators, and Users, with a feedback opportunity 
  • This article in Targeted Oncology announcing that the Melanoma Institute Australia and the University of Sydney have deemed the combination of pembrolizumab and ipilimumab as a safe treatment for advanced melanoma 
  • This article in Fierce Pharma that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has approved Bristol-Meyer’s combination of Opdivo and Yervoy for advanced melanoma patients
  • This Today piece about the “Mr. Sun” campaign, which aims to warn families about the possibly severe consequences of childhood burns 
  • This HelloGiggles article debunking 13 myths about sunscreen and skin cancer 
  • This piece from Cure Today  about the 2014 Cancer Experience Registry Report, “Elevating the Patient Voice”

molediagram

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A Sun Safety Reminder from The Save Your Skin Foundation!

Summer has officially begun, and while it’s off to a cloudy start here at Save Your Skin in Vancouver, it’s important to remember sun safety during your outdoor activities! Though it is tempting to get a tan during the summer, keep in mind that the Canadian Cancer Society cites exposure to ultraviolet radiation as the greatest risk factor for the development of skin cancer. Melanoma is often a preventable disease, yet it is estimated that in 2017, 7, 200 Canadians were diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer and 74, 000 with non-melanoma skin cancer. That is why it’s essential to keep sun safety in mind if you’re working or playing outside this summer!

If you choose to wear sunscreen, it should have at least SPF 30, with UVA and UVB protection. The high SPF ensures that you will be well protected if you apply every two hours, while UVA and UVB protection shields you from both longer and shorter UV rays, respectively. It is a good idea to reapply more frequently if you are sweating or swimming, as moisture can rinse away sunscreen, and if you are at the beach, as sand can reflect ultraviolet rays. Remember to apply sunscreen to areas which are often forgotten, such as the back of your neck, your ears, the backs of your hands and the tops of your feet. If you are concerned about the chemical compositions of sunscreen, you can stay sun safe with organic sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide as their only active ingredient. They are available at most drug stores. Whatever sunscreen you use, remember to apply it fifteen minutes before leaving the house, so the ingredients have time to be absorbed into your skin!

There are ways to protect yourself from UV rays as an alternative, or in addition, to wearing sunscreen. These include wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes and prevent ocular melanoma, and a hat to shield the top of your head and neck and long sleeved shirts and pants. It is wise to seek shade whenever possible, especially when you don’t have the protection of sunscreen or clothing.

Sun safety is especially important for children. There are links between intermittent and intense sun exposure (resulting in burns) in adolescence and the development of skin cancers later in life, and skin cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canadian youth from 15-35 years old. While it is a good idea to introduce your children to sun safety early, keep in mind that the developing skin of babies is sensitive to both UV damage and the chemicals found in sunscreen. It is therefore best practice to keep babies out of the sun as much as possible.

If you live in a city with inconsistent weather, it is important to be protected even when the sun isn’t shining. The Skin Cancer Foundation estimates that up to 40% of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation can still reach the earth through clouds, so it is important to consider sun safety even when the sky is grey. While we recommend wearing sunscreen every day, check a UV index app if you need convincing; if the UV index is higher than 3, the US Environmental Protection Agency recommends taking full sun safety measures. While we may take it for granted, the skin is our largest organ, and it deserves to be taken care of!

Thanks for reading! On behalf of the The Save Your Skin Foundation, have a great and sun safe summer!

 

 

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