Skin Cancer Prevention Research Articles

Application of Nanotechnology as a Novel Approach to the Treatment of Skin Cancer

Abstract:: Skin cancer has become the fifth most frequently reported form of cancer worldwide, imposing significant economic and public health challenges. Over the course of the last ten years, there has been a significant increase in the application of Nanoparticles (NPs) as a method of therapeutic administration to target skin cancer. The information has been gathered from many online databases, such as Scopus, Pubmed, Science Direct, and Web of Science, among others. An analysis of research articles that focused on the therapeutic effect of nanoformulations on skin cancer was included as part of the criteria for selecting the study. Nanoparticles have the potential to change the pharmacokinetics of the drug, increase the drug’s half-life by lowering immunogenicity, increase its bioavailability, decrease drug metabolism, and improve the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs. The distribution of NP-based treatments to the skin requires special consideration due to the fact that the skin acts as both a physical and immunologic barrier. In addition, specialized technologies must take into consideration not only the target but also the channel of administration in order to be effective. The purpose of this review article was to provide an overview of many types of NPs, address the current landscape of NPs for skin cancer prevention and treatment, and provide a description of the application of NP-based technologies for drug delivery targeting the skin.

Outdoor workers' perceptions of skin cancer prevention: a qualitative study.

Outdoor workers are at increased risk for skin cancer and melanoma. This qualitative study aimed to explore outdoor workers' perspectives and experiences of primary (i.e. sun protection) and secondary prevention, i.e. skin self-examination (SSE) of skin cancer. Purposive, snowball, and theoretical sampling was used to recruit outdoor workers in Kentucky and Indiana. Semi-structured interviews via telephone or videoconference of approximately 45 min were conducted with interviewer probes and questions about perceptions of cancer risk, prevention, and screening techniques conducted, perceived barriers and facilitators, and preferences for health dissemination venues. The recordings were transcribed verbatim and de-identified. Analysis involved constructivist grounded theory coding strategies. Using peer debriefing and consensus building around themes, the researcher established a codebook for all interviews to utilize within Dedoose software for systematizing and organizing data. Eighteen interviews were conducted. Interviewees (N = 18) ranged in age from 35 to 78 yr, with 3 females. Outdoor industries included agriculture, maintenance, and grounds maintenance. Themes derived from the data showed the underlying factors and perceptions that influence outdoor workers to conduct primary and secondary cancer prevention activities. The level of alarm attributed to disease and the level of trust in information contribute to intentions to conduct activities. The intentions and trust toward healthcare institutions and providers drive the primary or secondary prevention behaviors. Cultural and contextual factors included masculinity and self-sufficiency, familial and occupational priorities, and community ties. These data provide a basis for developing future communications and interventions to decrease skin cancer incidence in outdoor workers. They indicate that secondary prevention and building self-efficacy in conducting SSE should be emphasized in tandem or over primary skin cancer prevention methods in this population. Trusted local healthcare providers should primarily provide prevention information, and materials should utilize testimonials from the local community to best influence this population. Communications and training interventions are needed in this population to induce a proactive level of alarm about cancer and result in the performance of SSE.

Sun exposure and protection habits: Self-reported attitudes, knowledge and behaviours.

As exposure to UV radiation is the primary modifiable environmental risk factor associated with skin cancer, it remains the principal focus of most prevention strategies. Numerous sun protection campaigns have been implemented worldwide; however, their impact on the actual incidence and mortality rates of skin cancer seems to be limited. To create successful skin cancer prevention campaigns, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of individuals' attitudes and behaviours regarding sun protection. The aim of the current study was to determine and report on the prevalence of self-reported attitudes, knowledge and behaviours regarding two of the major sun protection recommendations-avoidance of sun exposure and use of sunscreens-in an international representative sample across five continents. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 20 countries using a web-based online survey. A total of 50,552 individuals, comprising 25,388 men (50.22%) and 25,164 women (49.78%), participated in the survey. Among them, 83.2% reported having been voluntarily exposed to the sun (for sun-basking reasons) at least once in the last 12 months, and 47.96% acknowledged being exposed to the sun between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM. The primary reason for non-adherence was that these hours were the most convenient times (32.28%). Only 24.05% reported applying sunscreen every 2 h when outdoors. Forgetfulness was the primary reason as provided by 27.79% of participants. Males and older age groups were less likely to adopt sun-protective behaviours around the world. Forgetfulness and the challenges posed by time constraints seem to be the biggest barriers to proper adherence. These findings should prompt the collaboration with health authorities and the manufacturers to enhance adherence by setting reasonable sunscreen prices and creating formulations that make their application less burdensome.

Legislative review and recommendations for improving sun protection in schools.

Sun exposure in schools can account for a large portion of childhood sun exposure before the age of 20 years, yet legislation in the United States is lacking to properly protect children. Schools serve as a foundational resource to introduce and implement sun-safe practices in the youth population. Federal and state legislation relating to the access of sunscreen, sun-protective apparel, and shade was reviewed via the website LegiScan.com. At the time of publication, only 25 states have legislation in place that addresses and allows sunscreen to be used in school, given its classification as an over-the-counter medication. No state has implemented legislation allowing sunglasses to be worn in school, and only two states have laws explicitly allowing hats and other sun-protective apparel at schools. In addition, the provision of shade is addressed in four states. With a significant portion of sun exposure occurring at schools, state and federal legislation must address sun protection for students, opening the door for expanded access and additional research related to skin cancer prevention.

Preliminary effects of a rural skin cancer prevention intervention for youths.

To pilot and assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of the Rural Adult and Youth Sun (RAYS) protection program, a multilevel skin cancer preventive intervention for young children living in rural U.S. communities, delivered through community-organized team sports. Three rural counties in Utah participated with two receiving the intervention and the third serving as a control. Youth sports leagues were recruited through recreation departments and the study took place from May through October 2021. Intervention leagues received sun protection supplies for players and coaches, educational materials for parents, and coaches were offered training on skin cancer and sun protection behaviors. The RAYS program is both feasible to deliver and acceptable to coaches, parents, and players. The intervention also demonstrates beneficial preliminary effects on components of observed child sun-protective behaviors, coach sun protection behaviors, knowledge of skin cancer prevention recommendations, and self-efficacy in skin cancer prevention. Multilevel interventions for skin cancer prevention among young children can be successfully delivered through community organizations and their settings. A priority moving forward is the identification of ways to optimize delivery of such programs to positively influence skin cancer preventive behaviors among children living in diverse rural areas. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Stressful life events and the occurrence of skin cancer.

It is widely acknowledged that emotional states can influence skin conditions, yet limited research has delved into the impact of stress on skin cancer development. This retrospective study sought to expand the perspective on skin cancer risk factors by investigating the complex relationship between stressful life events and the incidence of skin cancer. The sample included 268 individuals followed-up in a dermatological clinic, in three groups: Patients who had previously been diagnosed with cutaneous melanoma and are currently in remission (32%), those who had been diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer (30%), and a control group who are at risk for skin cancer (38%). Participants filled in questionnaires regarding childhood and adulthood life events, and loss and gain of resources following their subjectively most stressful event in adulthood. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the associations of life events with skin cancer occurrence, and mediating and moderating effects of resource loss/gain. Adverse childhood experiences were associated with melanoma occurrence, with the melanoma group reporting significantly more such experiences compared to the control group (p<0.001). Resource loss from subjectively significant stressful life events in adulthood partially mediated the association between adverse childhood experiences and melanoma incidence. The findings suggest that there may be intricate connections between stress, life events, adaptation to change, and skin cancer, which future research may further unravel. This study underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to stress management, coping strategies development, and skin cancer prevention in healthcare settings.

The importance of using sunscreen correctly for patients with Melasma

Melasma is a hyperpigmentation disorder that mainly affects women. Factors such as chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation, visible light, hormonal stimulation and genetic factors have been identified in its pathogenesis. It is characterized by reticulated, irregular, brown spots on areas of the skin exposed to the sun. The methodology used was a literature review with an exploratory qualitative approach, using academic platforms and bibliographies: SCIELO, PUB MED and GOOGLE ACADEMICO. The inclusion criteria were articles from recent years in Portuguese and English. The correct use of sunscreens can prevent the appearance of melasma, which in turn prevents skin cancer. Sunscreen helps block solar radiation, preventing dischromic spots that ultraviolet rays cause on the skin, and there are different factors for each skin type; always reapply every two hours and it is important to know that the use of sunscreen begins in childhood, as damage accumulates on the skin, causing complications in adulthood, such as skin cancer. It can be concluded that the use of accessories such as hats, umbrellas and sunscreens help prevent dyschromia.

Skin cancers are the most frequent cancers in fair-skinned populations, but we can prevent them.

Cancers of the skin are the most commonly occurring cancers in humans. In fair-skinned populations, up to 95% of keratinocyte skin cancers and 70–95% of cutaneous melanomas are caused by ultraviolet radiation and are thus theoretically preventable. Currently, however, there is no comprehensive global advice on practical steps to be taken to reduce the toll of skin cancer. To address this gap, an expert working group comprising clinicians and researchers from Africa, America, Asia, Australia, and Europe, together with learned societies (European Association of Dermato-Oncology, Euromelanoma, Euroskin, European Union of Medical Specialists, and the Melanoma World Society) reviewed the extant evidence and issued the following evidence-based recommendations for photoprotection as a strategy to prevent skin cancer. Fair skinned people, especially children, should minimise their exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and are advised to use protective measures when the UV index is forecast to reach 3 or higher. Protective measures include a combination of seeking shade, physical protection (e.g. clothing, hat, sunglasses), and applying broad-spectrum, SPF 30 + sunscreens to uncovered skin. Intentional exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation for the purpose of sunbathing and tanning is considered an unhealthy behaviour and should be avoided. Similarly, use of solaria and other artificial sources of ultraviolet radiation to encourage tanning should be strongly discouraged, through regulation if necessary. Primary prevention of skin cancer has a positive return on investment. We encourage policymakers to communicate these messages to the general public and promote their wider implementation.

Applying Digital Image Processing and Machine Learning Techniques for Screening of Skin Lesions

Introduction: The presence of pigmented skin lesions is a significant global concern in the prevention of skin cancer. Detecting skin cancer at an early stage is essential for proper management and effective treatment. This study aimed to combine image processing and data mining to develop an intelligent model to screen skin cancer from skin lesions.Material and Methods: The images were taken in a clinic by smartphone. Patients over 40 years of age participated in the study. During the segmentation phase, the lesions were separated from the original images through machine vision techniques. Various features such as symmetry, border irregularity, color variation, and diameter were extracted from the images, while some features were also obtained through face-to-face examination. Finally, a neural network was employed to classify whether the lesion was cancerous or non-cancerous. In addition, MATLAB version 2022 was considered to design the model.Results: The study results indicated excellent segmentation. Using a neural network-based model, skin lesions were classified with a high level of accuracy, with 98.4% accuracy and 97% sensitivity. The results indicated the designed model significantly screened skin cancer with high accuracy.Conclusion: This model can help patients to manage self-care and become aware of their skin lesions before consulting a physician.

Improving Skin Cancer and Sun Protective Counseling: Exploring Level of Knowledge and Risk Among Rural Patients

Skin cancer is the most prevalent cancer in the United States, affecting approximately 20% of Americans, with rates increasing annually [1]. By 2040, malignant melanoma is projected to be the second leading cancer [2]. While the majority of skin cancers have low morbidity and mortality, malignant melanoma causes significant morbidity and mortality, accounting for 80% of skin cancer related deaths [3]. Because early-stage melanomas have improved outcomes, early detection and treatment is imperative. However, the 2023 United States Preventative Task Force (USPTF) called for more research in order to determine skin cancer screening recommendations and made a grade B recommendation for counseling 6-month to 24-year-olds regarding minimizing exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation with fair skin to prevent skin cancer [4].

Impact of Sunscreen on Preventing Each Type of Facial Skin Cancer

The most frequent cancer in the US is skin cancer, around 5.4 million cases of Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) are treated every year, while BCC is more common. Exposure to ultraviolet rays is the source of four varieties of skin cancer: BCC, SCC, Melanoma, and Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC). Since there are several experiments done on the influence of sunscreen on skin cancer, this paper aims to offer a comprehensive and symmetric conclusion to existing research. This paper summarizes the current studies finished for each type of skin cancer that might be caused by high levels of UV exposure. This study cites 4 experiments for melanoma, and three of them show a reduction in the rate of melanoma if sun blockers were used. This paper also uses three research for SCC and BCC to analyze the relationship between sun cream application and the probability of having SCC and BCC. None of them found that sunscreen will decrease the rate of SCC and one of them contends that sun lotion can prevent some of SCC. There is no current research about MCC, as the difficulty of holding this kind of experiment. This study will provide a reference for the medical field and the general public to analyze if sun lotion should be employed to prevent skin cancers.

Efficacy of Combinational Treatment versus Nicotinamide Monotherapy in the Prevention of Ultraviolet Radiation-Induced Skin Cancer

Plain Language SummarySkin cancer is the most common type of cancer seen in the clinic. The amount of lifelong sun exposure and the degree of sunburns are important contributors to the development of skin cancer. Despite massive prevention campaigns promoting better sun habits by staying in the shade and applying sufficient sunscreen, skin cancer cases are still increasing. To address this, researchers are exploring different compounds for oral sun protection. In this study, we tested whether combining vitamin B3 (nicotinamide) with the well-known medication metformin or a known antioxidant called phloroglucinol could enhance its protection against sun-induced skin cancer. Hairless mice were given either nicotinamide alone or nicotinamide at a lower dose combined with either metformin or phloroglucinol through their drinking water and exposed to simulated sunlight 3 times per week to induce skin cancer. We show for the first time that mice treated with all three nicotinamide groups had a delay in skin cancer onset compared to sun-exposed control. Furthermore, we show that the nicotinamide and phloroglucinol combination provides the same sun protection as nicotinamide alone, whereas the combination with metformin did not. Notably, the nicotinamide combined with phloroglucinol provided a reduction in DNA damage, suggesting a better-suited mechanism of action for preventing skin cancer. Overall, the study indicates a potential strategy of combining compounds to enhance oral sun protection to prevent skin cancer.

Prevention and health promotion in dermatology

The term prevention includes measures that are used to avoid illnesses or damage to health as well as to reduce the risk of illness or to delay its occurrence. Preventive measures can be classified based on various criteria: temporal differentiation (primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention), context (behavioral and relational prevention), and recipient (general and individual prevention). Health promotion is used when appropriate measures are intended to strengthen and increase human health potential and resources. This includes, among other things, measures to develop health-promoting behavior (empowerment) and measures regarding the planning and implementation of health-promoting behavior (participation). One goal of these measures is generally to increase health literacy. This article describes examples of prevention and health promotion measures for occupational skin cancer (counseling approach for individual sun protection for outdoor workers; "individuelle Lichtschutzberatung" [ILB]) as well as occupational hand eczema within the meaning of German occupational disease number 5101 (outpatient and inpatient individual prevention measures). These are supplemented by the example of outpatient age-adapted small group trainings for patients with atopic dermatitis according to the multicenter evaluated concept of AGNES e. V. ("Arbeitsgemeinschaft Neurodermitisschulung") and ARNE ("Arbeitsgemeinschaft Neurodermitisschulung im Erwachsenenalter"). These examples also address aspects of sustainability and digitalization (eHealth, eLearning) in the areas of prevention and health promotion.

The New Media Landscape and Its Effects on Skin Cancer Diagnostics, Prognostics, and Prevention: Scoping Review.

The wide availability of web-based sources, including social media (SM), has supported rapid, widespread dissemination of health information. This dissemination can be an asset during public health emergencies; however, it can also present challenges when the information is inaccurate or ill-informed. Of interest, many SM sources discuss cancer, specifically cutaneous melanoma and keratinocyte cancers (basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma). Through a comprehensive and scoping review of the literature, this study aims to gain an actionable perspective of the state of SM information regarding skin cancer diagnostics, prognostics, and prevention. We performed a scoping literature review to establish the relationship between SM and skin cancer. A literature search was conducted across MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus from January 2000 to June 2023. The included studies discussed SM and its relationship to and effect on skin cancer. Through the search, 1009 abstracts were initially identified, 188 received full-text review, and 112 met inclusion criteria. The included studies were divided into 7 groupings based on a publication's primary objective: misinformation (n=40, 36%), prevention campaign (n=19, 17%), engagement (n=16, 14%), research (n=12, 11%), education (n=11, 10%), demographics (n=10, 9%), and patient support (n=4, 3%), which were the most common identified themes. Through this review, we gained a better understanding of the SM environment addressing skin cancer information, and we gained insight into the best practices by which SM could be used to positively influence the health care information ecosystem.

Adaptation and study protocol for harvest for health together Arizona: A mentored community garden intervention for survivors of cancer

BackgroundCurrent health behavior recommendations for skin cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship are the same for survivors of other cancers; they include eating a healthy diet, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and minimizing ultraviolet (U.V.) exposure. Few interventions exist to support health behaviors beyond U.V. exposure. We adapted Harvest for Health, a home-based mentored gardening intervention for cancer survivors, for implementation in Arizona as a community-based intervention. MethodsStakeholder-informed adaptations for Harvest for Health Together Arizona (H4H2-AZ) included updating intervention materials to be relevant to the arid desert environment, emphasizing the importance of sun safety in cancer survivorship, and shifting from a home-based to a community-based delivery model. Participants will be enrolled in cohorts aligned with growing seasons (e.g., spring, monsoon, fall) and matched to an individual 30 ft2 community garden plot for two growing seasons (6 months). Original intervention components retained are: 1) Master Gardeners deliver the intervention providing one-to-one mentorship and 2) gardening materials and supplies provided. This pilot six-month single-arm intervention will determine feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of an evidence-based adapted mentored community gardening intervention for survivors of skin cancer as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes are to explore the effects on cancer preventive health behaviors and health-related quality of life. DiscussionThis pilot single-arm intervention will determine feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of an evidence-based adapted mentored community gardening intervention for survivors of skin cancer. If successful, the intervention could be widely implemented throughout existing Master Gardener programs and community garden networks for survivors of other cancers. Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05648604. Trial registered on December 13, 2022.

An Integrated Approach of Bioassays and Non-Target Screening for the Assessment of Endocrine-Disrupting Activities in Tap Water and Identification of Novel Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals.

The safety of drinking water is a significant environmental issue of great concern for human health since numerous contaminants are often detected in drinking water and its sources. Boiling is a common household method used to produce relatively high-quality drinking water in some countries and regions. In this study, with the aid of an integrated approach of in vitro bioassays and non-target analysis based on high-resolution mass spectrometry coupled with liquid chromatography, alterations in endocrine-disrupting activities in tap water samples without and with boiling were revealed, as well as the potential endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) contributing to these alterations were identified. The organic extracts of tap water had no significant (ant)agonistic activities against an estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) at enrichment concentrations of ≤10 times, posing no immediate or acute health risk to humans. However, the presence of agonistic activities against PR and MR and antagonistic activities against ER, PR, GR, and MR in OEs of tap water at relatively higher enrichment concentrations still raise potential health concerns. Boiling effectively reduced antagonistic activities against these steroid hormone receptors (SHRs) but increased estrogenic and glucocorticoid activities in drinking water. Four novel potential EDCs, including one UV filter (phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid, PBSA) and three natural metabolites of organisms (beta-hydroxymyristic acid, 12-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid, and isorosmanol) were identified in drinking water samples, each of which showed (ant)agonistic activities against different SHRs. Given the widespread use of UV filters in sunscreens to prevent skin cancer, the health risks posed by PBSA as an identified novel EDC are of concern. Although boiling has been thought to reduce the health risk of drinking water contamination, our findings suggest that boiling may have a more complex effect on the endocrine-disrupting activities of drinking water and, therefore, a more comprehensive assessment is needed.

Evaluation of a Population-Based Targeted Screening Approach for Skin Cancer with Long-Time Follow-Up in Austria including Potential Effects on Melanoma Mortality.

whether screening for skin cancer affects melanoma-specific mortality in a population-based setting remains unclear. in this population-based cohort study, we characterized and evaluated a skin cancer prevention program following a targeted screening approach conducted in 1989-1994 in the Austrian province Vorarlberg, with follow-up until 2019. The general population and attendees of a health examination program served for comparison. in the screening program including full follow-up until 2019, 207 invasive and 187 in situ melanomas were identified in 8997 individuals. Incidences of invasive and in situ melanomas were elevated compared to the general population (IRR 2.92, 95%-CI 2.49-3.41, and IRR 4.13, 95%-CI 3.53-4.83, respectively) and the health examination program (HR 3.02, 95%-CI 2.59-3.52, and HR 3.90, 95%-CI 3.30-4.61, respectively). Breslow thickness and Clark's level at time of invasive diagnosis were significantly lower in 1989-2019, but the tumor characteristics of the melanomas diagnosed during 1989-1994 did not differ from the comparison groups. Moreover, melanoma mortality was significantly elevated in the screening program (IRR 1.66, 95%-CI 1.00-2.75 vs. the general population, HR 2.12, 95%-CI 1.25-3.61 vs. the health examination cohort). Melanoma mortality in Vorarlberg declined until 2004, though statistically non-significantly. given the uncertain effectiveness and high public expenditures of population-wide mass screening programs, primary prevention and targeted risk-based skin cancer screening might be promising alternatives.

Abstract 761: The relationship between ANGPTL4 and epidermal malignant transformation

Abstract High body mass index (BMI) is a risk factor for several types of cancers. Although epidemiology suggests obesity is negatively associated with non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), bariatric surgery has been shown to reduce the risk, suggesting a possible role of adipose tissue in the initiation and promotion of skin cancer. To gain mechanistic insight into how adipose tissue drives cutaneous carcinogenesis, we cultured non-tumorigenic mouse keratinocytes (JB6 P+ cells) with or without factors released from murine visceral adipose tissue (mFTF) and performed RNA-Sequencing. Published work demonstrated mFTF induces anchorage-independent cell growth, a surrogate marker for malignant transformation. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated a significant induction of Angptl4 mRNA in JB6 P+ cells cultured with mFTF for 3 and 8 hours compared to the vehicle-treated cells. ANGPTL4 is an endogenous inhibitor of lipoprotein lipase that modulates free fatty acid delivery to adipose tissue and oxidative tissues such as muscle and liver. The C-terminal protein demonstrates tumor-associated activities such as angiogenesis, metastasis, protection against anoikis, and enhancement of cell survival. Therefore, we hypothesized that the induction of this gene promotes malignant transformation. RNA-seq data was validated in multiple cell models, including primary keratinocytes with human adipose tissue. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess ANGPTL4 expression in 37 actinic keratosis (pre-malignant) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) from patients with different BMIs (18.6 - 49.5). Notably, ANGPTL4 was only observed in the suprabasal epidermal layers in normal skin. For samples containing both lesional and perilesional skin, there was an increase in ANGPTL4 expression in the lesional epidermis relative to the normal perilesional skin. Furthermore, ANGPTL4 expression increased from transition to actinic keratosis to cSCC in situ, suggesting that ANGTL4 is induced during malignant transformation as observed in our pre-clinical models. Interestingly, once cSCC developed an invasive component, ANGTPL4 expression was lost in the invasive keratinocytes but persisted in the in situ component. There was no association between ANGPTL4 expression and BMI in lesional tissue. These data suggest that targeting ANTPLT4 may be a novel therapy for the prevention of skin cancer and that ANGPTL4-high patients or cancer patients with obesity may be a critical demographic for potential risk assessment or therapeutic intervention. Future studies will determine the impact of knocking out ANGTPL4 in our models of malignant transformation. Citation Format: Nat Ato Yawson, Jonathan D. Diedrich, Karen T. Liby, Jesse Veenstra, Jamie Jenna Bernard. The relationship between ANGPTL4 and epidermal malignant transformation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 761.

A Social Media-Delivered Melanoma Prevention Program for Young Women Engaged in Frequent UV Tanning: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Rates of melanoma have increased dramatically in the United States over the past 25 years, and it has become among the most prevalent cancers for young adult women. Intentional skin tanning leads to a pattern of intense and intermittent UV radiation exposure that is associated with increased risk of melanoma. Frequent tanning is most common among young women and is linked to a variety of sociocultural pressures that negatively impact body image and drive appearance control behaviors. Unfortunately, there are no established interventions designed for frequent tanners. This intervention addresses this gap with unique content informed by body image and acceptance-based interventions. The intervention is delivered using Facebook secret groups, an approach designed to support behavior change and ensure scalability. This study aims to describe the rationale and methodology of a randomized controlled trial of a melanoma prevention program targeting young women engaged in frequent indoor or outdoor UV tanning. Participants are women aged 18-25 years who report high-risk tanning (ie, at least 10 indoor tanning sessions in the past 12 months or 10 outdoor sessions in the previous summer). After recruitment and screening, participants completed a baseline survey and were randomly assigned to receive the intervention or an attention-matched control condition. Both conditions were 8-week-long Facebook groups (approximately 25 members each) with daily posting of content. Follow-up surveys are administered at 3, 8, and 18 months after baseline. The primary trial outcome is the combined number of indoor and outdoor tanning sessions reported at the 8-month follow-up. Hypothesized intervention mediators are assessed at the 3-month follow-up. This project was funded by a National Cancer Institute award (R01 CA218068), and the trial procedures were approved by the University of Kentucky Institutional Review Board in February 2020. Trial recruitment and enrollment occurred in 6 waves of data collection, which started in February 2022 and closed in May 2023. The study is closed to enrollment but remains open for follow-ups, and this protocol report was prepared before data analyses. As of February 2024, all participants have completed the 8-month follow-up assessment, and data collection is scheduled to close by the end of 2024 after the collection of the 18-month follow-up. This trial will contribute unique knowledge to the field of skin cancer prevention, as no fully powered trials have examined the efficacy of an intervention designed for frequent indoor or outdoor tanning. The trial may also contribute evidence of the value in translating principles of body image and acceptance-based interventions into the field of skin cancer prevention and beyond. If successful, the use of the Facebook platform is intended to aid in dissemination as it provides a way to embed the intervention into individuals' everyday routines. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03441321; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03441321. DERR1-10.2196/56562.

Assessing Knowledge of Appropriate Sunscreen Guidelines and Skin Cancer Prevention Among New York Yankees Attendees

Assessing Knowledge of Appropriate Sunscreen Guidelines and Skin Cancer Prevention Among New York Yankees Attendees