The Value of Partnerships in Multi-Component Skin Cancer Prevention Interventions

Melanoma causes most skin cancer-related deaths, yet melanoma mortality rates can be decreased by life-long reduction of ultraviolet radiation exposure and early detection. The disease is readily detectable through skin examinations by trained medical providers; however, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force cites insufficient evidence to recommend "visual skin examination by a clinician to screen for skin cancer" in asymptomatic adults in the United States. As a coastal state with much outdoor occupational and recreational exposure to ultraviolet light, Rhode Island has developed a coordinated statewide partnership of stakeholders who provide valuable resources and expertise that maximize the reach and efficacy of targeted skin cancer prevention and screening programs. These programs include public skin cancer screening events, shade planning efforts, distribution of sunscreen at state parks and beaches, and educational programming.