Skin Cancer Screening and Education at Beaches (SHADE)
Skin Cancer
About this trial
This is an interventional prevention trial for Skin Cancer focused on measuring skin cancer prevention, SHADE, Beach
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
Beachgoers eligible to participate in the study included:
- those who were 18 years and older
- Caucasian
- able to understand, speak and read English
- ability to give informed consent
- had not already enrolled in the study at another participating beach
Sites / Locations
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Arm 3
Arm 4
Active Comparator
Experimental
Experimental
Experimental
education only
education plus dermatologist skin exam
educ, biometric fb, and derm skin exam
education plus biometric feedback
This comprehensive education program included a health educator visit, on the education van, who gave education about sun safety.
In addition to the education program, participants received free skin exams by board certified dermatologists from Brigham and Women's Hospital. The van was equipped with a private clinical setting conducive to carry out such examinations. Based on the recommendations of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), a visual full body exam was provided to participants. At the end of each skin exam the dermatologist provided a presumptive diagnosis to the participant, and made appropriate recommendations and referrals for follow up with the participants' physician/dermatologist (if and when necessary). All participants undergoing the skin exam were required to complete an "AAD Skin Cancer Screening Registration and Report form".
Participants received the active components of the other three conditions.
In addition to the educational program, participants received biometric feedback using a Dermascan Analyzer and Ultra Violet (UV) Reflectance Photography. The Dermascan Analyzer is an educational tool that enhances visibility of skin texture, markings or lesions and is commonly used in health fairs and at schools all over the country. The analyzer highlights the sun damage on the participants skin as dark purple blotches, which the participants are able to see in the mirror placed inside the analyzer. Ultra Violet (UV) Reflectance Photography provides participants with a visual image of their skin damage that can be taken with them.