LA PREVENZIONE DEI TUMORI CUTANEI

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that skin tumors are nowadays more frequent than in the past, especially in young people. One of the most important risk factor is represented by the type of skin pigmentation; fair-skinned people are, in fact, the most affected subjects. Another important role is played by frequent overexposure to U.V. rays. This is related to change in the present sun-tanning fashion which has consequently led to an increased daily sunlight exposure. For this reason we have started an educational campaign, at the moment limited to Liguria province, directed to skin cancer prevention and early diagnosis especially among young people. The first phase of this program contemplates an investigation of the habit of exposing oneself to the sun, revealing poor knowledge of the problem. Studies have shown that people expose themselves to the sun without taking any precaution and a general lack of information about the damages that U.V. rays can cause. The second phase will instead include a specific educational program for general practitioners and a course for high school students, teachers and parents. The last phase will provide data collection and comparison with the results of other Italian provinces and will enhance collaboration and data exchanges with the countries of the European Community.