Melanoma Foundation of New England Launches Free Prevention Program

The Melanoma Foundation of New England (MFNE) has made its melanoma prevention program The Skinny on Skin available nationwide online. The free course teaches the warning signs of skin cancer and advises the best ways to speak with their clients about suspicious moles and when to consult with a physician. The course was originally developed in 2011 as an in-person class, and it has been adapted for online to make the vital information more widely available. "We started this program knowing that beauty industry professionals are in a wonderful position to act as a second set of eyes for their clients," says executive director Deb Girard. "This program is yet another important step in our mission of melanoma prevention."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), melanoma is one of the fastest growing cancers in the U.S. and kills 10,000 people yearly. The key to stopping melanoma is early detection and treatment. This is especially important for the hard-to-see areas on the neck and scalp. These areas account for five percent of melanoma diagnoses, but is responsible for 10 percent of all melanoma deaths. Since spa and salon professionals closely examine their client’s scalps on a regular basis, they must be equipped with the skills to spot potential melanoma long before anyone else. With the proper training through The Skinny on Skin, these professionals can act as the first line of defense against skin cancer, as well as advocates for better skincare practices.

Learn more about MFNE and The Skinny on Skin program.