While the devastating effects of breast, lung and other forms of cancer
are known, some may be surprised to learn that more than 20 Americans
die each day from skin cancer, primarily melanoma. According to http://www.melanoma.com,
the survival rate for patients whose melanoma is detected early is
about 99 percent, but falls to 15 percent for those with advanced
disease.
Melanoma is a malignant tumor that originates in melanocytes, the cells
that produce the pigment melanin which colors our skin, hair, and eyes.
Risk factors for melanoma include exposure to sun and artificial
sources, family history, number of moles MUSC, I Will Reflect Melanoma
Initiative
This year, MUSC has partnered again with The Spa at Charleston Place to
educate the public about melanoma. “I Will Reflect” (IWR) is a program
that aims to remind individuals to “reflect” on the need to protect
their skin.
There are several ways to “reflect.”
- Wear an “I Will
Reflect” bracelet, which glows purple when the wearer’s skin is exposed
to dangerous sun rays. They are on sale at The Spa at Charleston Place
for $3. Proceeds from all bracelet sales will be donated to the MUSC’s
Department of Dermatology. Share the message of skin protection with
family and friends by wearing an “I Will Reflect” bracelet.
- Pamper yourself with
a luxury “I Will Reflect” treatment and The Spa at Charleston Place
will donate 10 percent of the cost to MUSC. These treatments combine an
indulgent facial or massage with sun safety tips, skin checks and
sunscreen gifts.
- Enjoy a 25 percent discount on a specialty sun care treatment when wearing an “I Will Reflect” bracelet.
Join the “I Will Reflect
Charleston—Melanoma Initiative” Facebook group and share a melanoma
story for a chance to win a monthly drawing for prizes from The Spa at
Charleston Place. Group members will also receive exclusive offers and
discounts. For information, call 937-8522.
To get news, statistics and studies on melanoma, follow along on Twitter (@CharlestonPLSpa).
Friday, July 31, 2009
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