Skin cancer awareness programs: success of a statewide program of education and screening in Ohio

Skin cancer has been increasingly identified as an important public health concern. Dramatic increases in the incidence of skin malignancies have led the dermatologic community in Ohio to organize a statewide program of education and free public screenings. The program reached multiple geographic areas throughout Ohio. Educational programs were presented on television and radio, in newspapers, in independent programs, and in schools. Skin cancer screenings ultimately evaluated 5,492 patients. Six hundred and twenty-three patients were found to have suspected malignancies, while an additional 1,647 patients were found to have premalignant lesions of skin. A total of 2,370 patients were therefore found to have significant findings (43.2%). These results emphasize the need for public education concerning this condition.