Vitamin a supplements could reduce the risk of developing the deadly skin cancer melanoma, according to a new study.

The results show that people takingvitamin a were 60 percent less likely to develop melanoma over the six-year study. People who had taken the vitamin, but weren’t currently taking it, did not gain any protective effect. 

The reduced risk was more pronounced in women than men.

“This is promising evidence that in addition to sun protection, there’s another option that can help prevent melanoma,” said Dr. Mary Gail Mercurio, a dermatologist at the University of Rochester Medical Center, who was not involved with the study.  

Vitamin a is found in foods such as sweet potato, carrots, spinach, milk, eggs and liver. The vitamin plays an important role in vision, bone health, immune function and reproduction, but high doses of it can be toxic. 

The study appears today (March 1) in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology.

Genetics could increase melanoma risk

Melanoma is the sixth leading cause of cancer in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society. About 76,000 cases of melanomas will be diagnosed this year, based on recent estimates.

In the study, researchers examined about 69,000 men and women, and after about six years, 566 had developed melanoma.

Among the 59,000 people in the study who had never taken vitamin a supplements, there were 506 cases of melanoma, while among the 5,800 people who were currently taking it and had used it regularly over the past 10 years, there were 28 cases.

Study researcher Dr. Maryam Asgari, a dermatologist and research scientist at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, said the protective effect might be stronger in women than men because men may be more susceptible to skin damage from ultraviolet radiation.

She pointed to a recent animal study that suggests females may have more natural antioxidant protection in the skin than males.

The new study also found the melanoma risk was reduced the most in those who took high doses of the supplement. But Asgari cautioned that takingtoo much vitamin a could lead to such harmful conditions   as birth defects, liver problems and bone loss.

“There are limits to how much vitamin a a person can consume,” she said.

The recommended daily amount of vitamin a is 700 micrograms for adult women and 900 micrograms for adult men, according to the National Institutes of Health. Taking more than 2,800 micrograms of vitamin a could lead to toxic symptoms in adults.

Genetic risk

Reducing sunlight exposure has long been recommended to reduce the risk of melanoma. this includes limiting time in direct sunlight, wearing sun block and avoiding tanning beds. 

Unfortunately, not all melanoma is a result of sun exposure. there is also a strong genetic component, Mercurio said. “Even the most vigilant sun-avoider is at risk, especially if they are fair-skinned, freckle easily and have red or blonde hair.”

Although she said the study’s findings were compelling, she cautioned it’s not clear how much vitamin a might bring a benefit.

“We don’t know yet the optimal dosage,” Mercurio said. “Further studies will clarify how much vitamin a in the form of a supplement would be of benefit for melanoma prevention.” 

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WINSTON-SALEM — Turning 50 proved to be a milestone for Mike Tyson not just in terms of age.

Tyson, of Winston-Salem, credits the symbolic birthday for saving his life because he chose to undergo a routine prostate-specific antigen test at that time. the test measures a specific protein released by prostate cells.

Because his PSA level was elevated for his age, Tyson underwent a biopsy that revealed prostate cancer. he had surgery in February.

He said his recovery was slow but that in August, he began feeling more like himself, particularly after participating in the Livestrong program for cancer patients and survivors at local YMCAs.

The necessity of the PSA test — and the consequences of what it might reveal — has become a significant topic at local urologist offices since October, when the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended against it.

For men, prostate cancer is second only to skin cancer in frequency of cancer cases. It also is the second leading cause of death, behind lung cancer.

In 2009, health-care lobbying groups criticized the task force for recommending that most women wait until age 50 to get mammograms and then have one every two years. the American Cancer Society’s longstanding recommendation is annual screening starting at 40.

Opponents of the PSA test say it tends to lead to potential misdiagnosis and unnecessary biopsies and treatment for men, particularly for those 50 and older. they say urologists support PSA testing because it can be a significant revenue source.

After conducting five clinical PSA trials, the task force said, “There is moderate or high certainty that the service has no net benefit and that the harms outweigh the benefits.” according to a new York Times report, the task force said the test “cannot tell the difference between cancers that will and will not affect a man during his natural lifetime.”

Proponents point to examples, such as Tyson, as to why the test is pertinent.

Tyson said he’s convinced PSA testing is not only necessary but should be done sooner.

“I had no symptoms of prostate cancer,” Tyson said. “Having my wife die of bone cancer in February 2008 after fighting it valiantly for seven years, and with an 11-year-old daughter to care for, I didn’t consider anything other than surgery.

“If I had gone with the watch-and-wait approach, I might not have been checked for months, if not years, because of being 50. who knows how much the prostate cancer could have spread in that time?”

Urologists affiliated with Forsyth and Wake Forest Baptist medical centers support the stance of the American Urological Association.

“until there is a better widespread test for this potentially devastating disease, the task force — by disparaging the test — is doing a great disservice to the men worldwide who may benefit from the PSA test,” said Dr. Sushil Lacy, president of the association.

“It is our feeling that, when interpreted appropriately, the PSA test provides important information in the diagnosis, pre-treatment staging, or risk assessment and monitoring of prostate cancer patients.”

This issue isn’t one that affects just urologists, said Karen Richardson, a spokeswoman for Wake Forest Baptist. “many men get their prostate cancer screenings from their primary-care physicians,” she said.

Dr. Jeremy Hubbard, a urologist at Carolina Urological Associates, said he disagrees with the task force’s recommendation because it is a sweeping declaration for a decision that is individual in nature.

“We’re concerned that some patients — and some primary physicians — may only consider the task force’s recommendations and not access all the pertinent information they may need,” Hubbard said.

In 2008, the task force recommended against PSA testing in men ages 75 or older, relying instead on the watch-and-wait approach because treating the prostate cancer for men of that age could cause more harm than the disease itself.

Hubbard said that because some prostate cancer is slow to grow, “it requires reasonable active surveillance by physician and patient.”

“Treatment recommendations for someone with prostate cancer are different for someone in their 40s and 50s compared with 60s and 70s,” he said.

The American Council on Science and Health supported the task force’s recommendations because it said tens of thousands of men have had serious complications from unnecessary prostate surgery, ranging from blood in the urine to incontinence and impotence, and even death.

Dr. Gilbert Ross of the council said a more specific test for prostate cancer is needed — one that will identify only cancer cells that are likely to develop into dangerous tumors and metastases.

“the PSA test should not continue to wreak so much havoc on people’s lives,” Ross said.

So, you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Al Olsen doesn’t want to hear your complaints or self-pity.

He has heard it all before.

It’s not fair?

“Who told you life was fair?” he said.

Why me?

“Well, why not you?” Olsen said. “You want to give it to somebody else?”

Olsen, 70, paused.

“Stop whining and do things for other people.”

Olsen’s been there. Twice. After his second bout with prostate cancer, the retired business executive founded the Las Cruces chapter of us TOO International, Inc., a non-profit, grassroots education and support network for prostate cancer.he had heard of the us TOO chapter in St. Louis and attended meetings.

“They all had different modalities of treatment,” Olsen said. “They all had differnet perspectives. There was a camraderie because they were survivors and they were highly knowledgeable. they let me know what questions to ask, and to get other opinions.”

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer in American men (behind skin cancer). the only cancer that kills more men is that of the lung. about one man in 36 will die of prostate cancer.

Unfortunately, the early stages of prostate cancer often aren’t marked by symptoms. the Mayo Clinic website indicates that these symptoms typically don’t arise till the disease is more advanced.

Ten years ago, that’s what happened to Bernie Ripper. he went to a cancer study in Utah and the medical team said he had an enlarged prostate, something he had to monitor.

His prostate kept growing.

“The shock of it is deveasting when it comes to you, because you have had no symptoms,” said Ripper, now 88. “All of the sudden your urologist says you need a biopsy.

“All you can think about is, ‘My god, I’ve got cancer.’”

Ripper’s doctor advised radiation treatment because a heart condition could have made surgery dangerous. Ripper endured 45 sessions of radiation therapy in three months.

His prostate cancer faded and the only lingering side effect of the treatment is moderate bowel incontinence.

“That’s the worst,” said Ripper, a member of us TOO Southern new Mexico. “But it’s something I can live with. I’m still alive.”

Ripper tries to keep that positive mindset in talking to new members at us TOO.

“The first thing we tell them is that it’s not the end of the world,” he said. “You can live with prostate cancer, but its got to be treated.”

When Olsen was first diagnosed in 1992, at age 50, he opted for surgery. his doctor said the operation cleared the cancer from his prostate.

Nine months later, during a routine follow up, Olsen’s test results alarmed doctors. he was hospitalized with obstructive pnuemonia. Further tests revealed that the prostate cancer had spread to Olsen’s lung.

“Then something remarkable happened,” Olsen said.

Olsen convinced his doctors to allow him out of the hospital for a day, Easter Sunday. he went to sing at Easter Mass. the following Tuesday, Olsen was slated to have his right lung removed. on Monday, during a final consultation for the surgery, doctors couldn’t locate the tumor.

Olsen remembers his doctor pacing.

“He kept saying, ‘I’ll be damned. I’ll be damned,’” Olsen said.

Was it divine intervention? or a faulty diagnosis?

Olsen didn’t offer an explanation. But his experiences with us TOO have led him to determine that one factor is critical in dealing with prostate cancer.

“Over the years, I’ve seen a lot of cases,” he said. “Attitude is really important.”

Olsen took an aggressive and positive attitude toward his battle with prostate cancer, something he said came from his experience in the business world.

“When faced with difficult situations, you’ve got to lead,” he said.

So Olsen trained and worked out. he would run up the down escalators at the St. Louis Union Station.

“I was young and I was in ripping good shape,” he said. “I worked my butt off, so I was strong as a horse. I was lean and mean.”

Sure, his body might have been in peak condition, but, for Olsen, it was more about his mindset.

Said Olsen: “I’ve seen cases where guys were determined to be terminal in six months, and four years later, they’re coming to my house to have coffee.”

James Staley can be reached at (575) 541-5476

By the numbers

1: Number of men, in six, that is at a lifetime risk of prostate cancer

2: Men diagnosed with prostate cancer every five minutes

70: Average age of diagnosis

30,350: Number of deaths every year from prostate cancer

2 million: Living American men who have survived prostate cancer

— Source: ustoo.org

What is it?

Prostate — a small, walnut-shaped gland near the bottom of the bladder that produces the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.

— Source: mayoclinic.com

Prostate cancer symptoms

trouble urinating

Frequent urge to urinate

Decreased force in urine stream

Blood in urine or semen

Painful ejaculation

Loss of appetite and weight

Leg swelling

Pelvic area discomfort

Bone pain

— Sources: ustoo.org, mayoclinic.com

At risk?

Age: The risk of the disease increases with age. It’s most common in men over 65.

Race: African-American and white men are at greatest risk. American Indians are at least risk. Hispanics fall in the middle.

Genetics: The more close relatives that have had prostate cancer, the more your risk increases.

Weight: Men with a body mass index over 32.5 have a greater risk of dying from prostate cancer; they are also more likely to have advanced disease that’s tougher to treat.

— Sources: the National Cancer Institute, ustoo.org, mayoclinic.com

Screening and diagnosis

Many organizations, such as us TOO, recommend yearly exams as early as age 35 if you are in a high risk group (African-American, obese, have close family with the disease). For every other man, these exams should begin no later than age 40.It’s important to note that the Mayo Clinic’s website says there are other organizations which advise against screening, and that it’s important to discuss it with your doctor.

Listed below are the tests us TOO recommends for men every year:

Prostate-specific antigen test — Through a blood sample, the doctor tests the levels of prostate-specific antigen, which is produced in a healthy prostate. If the level rises, that could be a sign of trouble.

Digital rectal exam — This is the test that is most often associated with prostate screening, and it’s one that many men dread. via the rectum, the doctor examines the prostate with a gloved and lubricated finger. If there are abnormalities, further tests may be necessary.

Us TOO recommends that men get screened once a year, either near their birthday or in September, which is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

Us TOO Southern new Mexico

What is it: a local prostate cancer education and support group, operating as an independent chapter under the parent group, us TOO International, Inc.

What it offers: Regular meetings for men living with prostate cancer, and their families. according to the us TOO website, the meetings, “provide unbiased information from experts in areas related to prostate cancer, including surgery, radiation, medications, nutrition, and psychology.”

When and where: the group meets locally the fourth Tuesday of every month at Memorial Medical Center at 6:30 p.m.For more information contact Bernie Ripper, (575) 521-7942

UV radiation can trigger a fantastic offer of unique harmful effects on our bodies. probably the most generally found about is skin cancer. the radiation from the ultra violet light can burn up and damage skin, and as time passes steer to unique forms of skin cancer. However, there’s over just cancer malignancy that could be caused by these harmful ultra violet rays. damage to the eye paintballs is another necessary impact a fantastic offer of people will not think about. This damage, it doesn’t matter what part of the body, can transpire at any time of the year, in sunny or cloudy weather. summer time however is the time where ever you desire the greatest quantity of protection.

First, you desire sunshine display with a minimum SPF of 15 for adequate protection. This wants for being applied each two hours and immediately after swimming or large perspiring. On children, this might be considered a must. This however only protects your skin. You still desire one matter to protect your eyes, sunglasses.

There are many forms of sun shades on the marketplace you are ready to buy, and almost each store, even gas stops hold them. What you desire for being watchful of is which they say ultra violet protection. if it is simply tinted plastic material or glass, it’s not almost certainly to protect you. Children are more susceptible to ultra violet ray damage than adults. this certainly is mainly true simply because children spend more time outdoors than adults do.

There are many forms of sun shades on the marketplace for kids. they might be with the variety of colors, shapes, animals, as well as what dimension they appear in. Again, only obtain glasses that have got the ultra violet protection. the kid should certainly be along with you when you purchase the glasses which means you are ready to be positive which they not only match the face properly, but also shield the eye paintballs from all angles. the contact lenses of the glasses should certainly be built of the polycarbonate and impact resistant. Never obtain sun shades built of glass until prescribed by a doctor. in concert with encouraging children to wear sunshine glasses, also have them wear a vast brim hat. these in concert should certainly offer the kid fantastic protection.

There are many necessary issues parents desire to protect their children against. ultra violet ray protection is simply as necessary as any other thing. since damage is done over time, children should certainly be taught in a real youthful grow elderly how necessary sporting and reapplying the sunscreen, sporting accurately fitted sunglasses, and also making use of a vast brimmed hat for ultimate protection. Teaching children in a youthful grow elderly will guidance to establish good behavior which could last a lifetime, and so they too will pass on for his or her children.

Eye damage after in life, for example cataracts could be from bad eye protection being a child. By then, it is too late, the damage has been done.

Over the last few decades we have all been bombarded with messages about how exactly crucial it is to keep out of the sun. We recognize precisely how real skin cancer is and the risks associated with it so we do everything we can think to do to keep it from happening to us. We slather on layers and layers of the greatest SPF sunscreens that we can purchase. We wear massive floppy caps. We wear long pants and sleeves even throughout the hottest months of the year. We do our best to remain only in the shady areas–some have even started carrying parasols and umbrellas all over so that their skin never comes into contact with direct sunlight. now we’re finding out that the sun can be beneficial! can direct sunlight genuinely help you?

A new analysis has found that individuals who allow themselves some sun exposure are less likely to develop MS than those who try to minimize their sun exposure. The study was actually conducted to see how Vitamin D affects the progression of Multiple Sclerosis. it didn’t take long for them to realize that it is the Vitamin D our bodies make after exposure to the sun’s rays that is at the center of the issue.

It’s been acknowledged for a very long time that Vitamin D and sunshine can impact the way the immune system works and how it can contribute to Multiple Sclerosis. This distinct study, though, is focused on how sunlight affects the people who are starting to experience the very earliest of MS symptoms. The target of the study is to see how the sun’s rays and Vitamin D might have an affect on the symptoms doctors call “precursor” to actual symptoms of the disease.

Unfortunately there are not really a lot of methods to really quantify the hypothesis of the study. This study is seeking to demonstrate whether or not sunlight can truly help a person prevent Multiple Sclerosis. Sadly, scientists have recognized that the only approach to prove this definitively is to monitor a person for his entire life. This is just about the only method to actually assess the levels of Vitamin D that are already present in a person’s blood before the precursors to MS start to become apparent. The way it is currently, individuals who get regular exposure to the sun appear to experience fewer symptoms of MS than those who live in colder or darker climates–which isn’t new news.

There is also the very significant concern that spending a lot of time in the sunshine greatly increases a person’s chances of developing skin cancer. so, in an attempt to stave off one condition, you could be causing yourself to create a different one. Of course, skin cancer-if caught early on-has a better possibility of being cured. MS still isn’t curable.

So should you improve your direct exposure to the sun so that you don’t get MS? Talk to the doctor to figure out if this is an excellent strategy. Your physician will find out if you are in danger for the disease (and how much) by checking out your genetics, medical history and current health. This can help your doctor figure out exactly what the best thing for you to do is.

In case you itch for further facts about rc car parts, stop by the Author’s web site soon.

As the Queensland Cancer Council celebrates its 50th anniversary today, we challenge readers to demonstrate just how much they know about the potentially fatal disease.

Q1. which cancer causes the most deaths in males?

a)   Prostateb)   Lungc)   BrainQ2. which cancer causes the most deaths in females?a)   Lungb)   Breastc)   Gynaecological cancer`    Q3. which one of these cancers is NOT commonly diagnosed in Queensland men?a)   Non-Hodgkin lymphomab)   Brainc)   Melanoma

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Q4. which one of these cancers is NOT commonly diagnosed in Queensland women?a)   Uterusb)   Lungc)   BladderQ5. Can men develop breast cancer?a)   Yesb)   No

Q6. what is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia?a)   Leukaemia b)   Prostatec)   Colorectal (bowel)

Q7. which type of skin cancer is easiest to treat?a)   Melanoma b)   Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) c)   Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)Q8. are people with fair skin and blue eyes most at risk of skin cancer?a)   Yesb)   No

Q9. which one of the following statements is incorrect?a)   Women should have their breasts screened every two years.b)   Mammograms are aimed at healthy women without symptoms, aged between 50 and 69.c)   A mammogram can provide an accurate screening for women under 40.

Q10. which of the following cancers can be caused by smoking?a)   Prostateb)   Vulvac)   Brain

Click here for answers.

Formed in 1961, the Queensland Cancer Council has aimed to raise awareness of cancer treatment and prevention options throughout the state.

In July I noticed a small white freckle shaped thing on my back. I figured I must have had something on my back while I was soaking up the sun. now, it seemed to have spread on my back. its about 5 inches now but it is all blotchy. Should I see a doctor?

Yes see a doctor, especially since it is spreading…

Yes you should get a referral to a dermatologist real soon so she can look at it for you.

Yes you should. Symptoms for skin cancer include odd spots that grow, and moles. if you have any of these, you definitely should see a doctor.

Skin cancer is a common and serious disease that affects people having any skin tone. it appears mainly on the skin areas that witness prolonged exposure to the sun.

But if skin cancer affects an individual having dark complexion, it can appear on any part of the skin whether it is exposed to the sun or not. The most common parts of the skin that get affected by skin cancer include the face, scalp, lips, chest, neck, hands, arms and legs in case of a woman.

Therefore, most people are often confident that skin cancer cannot affect the body parts that are rarely exposed to the sun and hence do not notice the signs of skin cancer and become its victims.

Thus people should not overlook the symptoms that appear on the areas including palms, spaces under the toenails or fingernails or the genital area.

You need to be cautious and look for the signs of skin cancer because if it is detected and diagnosed in its early stage, it can be treated with ease. so let us know about the signs of skin cancer so that you take immediate step, in case you find these signs on your body parts.

The most common sign of skin cancer is a new growth on the skin that is formed due to buildup of cells. This growth may turn into a pimple or a sore that may bleed or leak fluid. This sore may not heal and form a scab or a coating, which may again bleed or ooze out fluid.

Another common sign of skin cancer is a change in the skin growth that already exists. if you have any mole, lesion or freckle that appears poles apart from the rest of the skin growth or if they start changing in shape or size or begin elevating or itching then you must be alert because they could indicate that you have been affected by skin cancer. In such situation, you must consult an experienced dermatologist for advice and help.

Change in color of the normal skin growth is also an important sign of skin cancer. Hence, if you observe that the color is getting darker or lighter, then you must consult your doctor.

All skin changes are not caused by skin cancer. so don’t get worried and see your doctor if you notice the above-mentioned signs of skin cancer.

Skin Cancer Symptoms and Signs

The most common form of cancer to strike people than any other form is skin cancer. all skin types can develop skin cancer but is it more common in fair-skinned people. The main cause of skin cancer is from ultraviolet radiation from spending too much time in the sun. Discovering the signs of skin cancer early, and avoiding overexposure to the sun are the two greatest ways to prevent skin cancer. Ultraviolet light, heredity and environment are the three major causes of skin cancer, mostly in children and teens. Studies have shown that adults receive half of their lifetime ultraviolet exposure when they are 20 years old.

Did you know skin is our bodies largest organ. it protects our internal organs from injury, acts as a barrier between those organs and bacteria, and prevents the loss of valuable fluid from our body. it also regulated body temperature and communicates to the brain to allow for temperature, touch, and pain sensations. You can see why it is important to keep our skin healthy and free from any signs of skin cancer symptoms. The majority of skin cancers are classified as non-melanoma or melanoma.

Non-melanoma skin cancer will develop on those areas of the body that are the most exposed to the sun. The early signs of skin cancer systems that appear on the body, face, ears, neck, lips, and the backs of our hands are where most non-melanoma skin cancer would be found. These signs of skin cancer rarely spread to another part of the body.

Skin cancer signs can be one extreme to the next, either the cancer can be slow growing or grow at a rapid rate.

Melanoma, a common skin cancer, begins in the cells that produce the skin pigment or coloring known as melanin. Melanin also protects the deepest layers of the skin from harmful radiation from the sun. Melanoma accounts for a small percentage of skin cancer, but it is far more dangerous and life threatening than non-melanoma skin cancer. The chances of surviving melanoma skin cancer are better if it is caught in the earliest stage.

The signs of skin cancer include family history of skin cancer, multiple moles, a fair complexion, exposure to coal tar, pitch, creosote, arsenic compounds, and radium, and severe sunburn as a child.

Your body will show early signs of skin cancer symptoms, and both patients and doctors play an important role in finding signs of skin cancer. if you believe you have signs of skin cancer or have any change on the skin, consult your doctor. any change can be a sign of skin cancer, like the size and color of a mole, or a growth that is darkly pigmented, or a new growth on the skin. if you have a change in the appearance of any bump or nodule, or if you have oozing, bleeding or scaling of the skin you should contact your doctor. another sign of skin cancer to look for is if the color of the pigmentation spreads beyond the border of a mole or mark. another sign of skin cancer would be a change in sensations to your skin, for example, itchiness, tenderness, or pain, it’s time to go to your doctor.

If you watch for any of the signs of skin cancer symptoms it can be prevented that is important to know. Avoid the sun for extended periods of time and make sure to practice sun safety. if you fear that you have signs of skin cancer symptoms, avoid the sun altogether between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM. try to stay in the shade especially when rays are the strongest. to protect your skin from the sun rays it is helpful to wear a long sleeved shirt.

If you show any of the signs of skin cancer symptoms, using sunscreen is important when you are going to be in the sun. using a sunscreen of SPF 15 or above when outdoors will help you protect your skin from skin cancer. use sunscreen generously and always reapply if you have been in the water, are heavily perspiring, or have recently toweled off.

For prevention of developing signs of skin cancer wear a hat this will keep your face, ears, and neck shaded and provide some protection. A wide-brimmed hat is the best choice but if you are wearing a baseball cap, remember to protect your ears and neck with sunscreen.

Your eyes also need protection from developing signs of skin cancer. The best protection for the eyes and surrounding skin is to wear sunglasses. Sunglasses with 99-100 percent UV absorption are recommended when you are in the sun.

Protect yourself, and alert your doctor if you think you may be developing any signs of skin cancer.

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Siân James MP, Chair of the Melanoma Taskforce, a group of leading skin cancer experts, has welcomed the Government’s new cancer reform strategy, ‘Improved Outcomes: a Strategy for Cancer’, announced on Wednesday, but called for more action to tackle the alarming rise in the incidence of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Applauding the extra focus and funding that is to be given to improved prevention strategies and the increased focus on diagnosing all cancers early, she particularly welcomed the publication of 2015 Skin Cancer Visions, which set out the direction of travel for skin cancer services over the next four years. Of the proposals that make up the new Visions, 17 directly echo the recommendations made by the Melanoma Taskforce in its report last year. Siân James MP today called on the Government to implement these recommendations to prevent the further rise of melanoma, which killed more than 2,000 people in the UK in 2008. Praising the impact of the Melanoma Taskforce in the formation of the Visions, Siân James MP highlighted some of the most important areas where the Government should take immediate steps to ensure the Visions become reality: • Skin cancer charities should work collaboratively with public health directors to target messages about the dangers of overexposure to the sun and the importance of early detection to the most susceptible groups. • Quality Standards in melanoma should be introduced to provide a robust service framework and outcome goals that will guide the new GP consortia in commissioning skin cancer services. • more training in dermatology for GPs should be provided including mandatory training in how to recognise melanoma in order to improve early diagnosis. • as it is likely that there will be an increasing number of patients with metastatic disease, consideration should be given to how their management should be different from those with primary skin cancers. Commenting on the new Strategy and Skin Cancer Visions, Siân James MP said: “I am delighted that the Government’s new cancer strategy recognises the important role that prevention and awareness campaigns can play in tackling the rising incidence of skin cancer. the Sunbed bill comes into effect from April this year and will play a large role in prevention strategies. it is equally important that GPs and all professionals that come into contact with people’s skin are given the training to spot the signs and symptoms of skin cancer and that patients with melanoma are able to access the best treatment and care.”  

For more information:dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/PublicationsPolicyAndGuidance/DH_123371

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Last updated on: 14/01/2011 09:44:20