The Hawai’i Skin Cancer Coalition’s mission is to provide clear, concise messages on skin cancer prevention and early detection for both the public and health professionals.
The Hawai`i Skin Cancer Coalition (HSCC) has been a collaborative effort between concerned local organizations and businesses including the University of Hawai`i Cancer Center, American Cancer Society, Hawai`i Pathologists’ Laboratory, the Friends of the University of Hawai`i Cancer Center, the Hawai`i Dermatological Society, Kaiser Permanente, Kuakini Health System, the Hawai`i Lifeguard Association, Spotlight Hawai`i Publishing, Queen’s Healthcare Plan, Dermatology Nurses Association-Hawai`i Chapter, Hawai`i Ophthalmological Society, Planet Sun, and the University of Hawai’i Dermatology Interest Group Students. All of these organizations shared a common goal to help prevent skin cancer.
Founded in 1995 by volunteers from the American Cancer Society, Hawai`i Department of Health, and University of Hawai’i Cancer Center, the Coalition’s initial endeavor was canvassing Waikiki beaches to distribute literature on skin cancer and sunscreen samples to tourists and locals alike. In the decades since, HSCC has spearheaded efforts to educate the greater community utilizing a number of different venues and approaches.
Importantly, HSCC promotes sun protection education in Hawai`i in a manner mindful of the rich cultural diversity in the state and with a focus on community access. For example, in 1997, HSCC developed a series of award-winning Public Service Announcements about sun protection that was featured on all three major broadcast TV networks, Japanese and Korean language TV stations, and the hotel industry’s TV channel. In recent years, the participation of local athletes at our events has helped to enhance awareness that all ethnic groups in Hawai’i are at risk for developing skin cancer.
HSCC has coordinated free skin cancer screenings at public venues and events, including Lanikai Elementary School, Kapiolani Community College Farmers Market, Kahala Mall and Papakolea Health Fair (for the Native Hawaiian community). Between 2010 and 2013, volunteer dermatologists identified 587 skin conditions in individuals screened and information was provided to ensure receipt of appropriate care.
Speakers from our organization have provided educational presentations tailored to an array of audiences, including medical professionals and health care providers, groups with increased risk due to personal or professional sun exposure, and community groups, businesses and non-profit organizations whose members wish to broaden their knowledge about skin cancer. Our education efforts have also included presentations and educational programs for children and teens at local public and private schools. Please contact us by email (hawaiiskincancercoalition@gmail.com) if your group is interested in having a speaker.
