Library Corner: May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month

May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month. In 2014, it is estimated that 6,500 new cases of melanoma and 76,100 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer will be diagnosed, making skin cancer the most common type of cancer in Canada.

Skin cancer is often divided into two categories: non-melanoma and melanoma. Melanoma is the more deadly of the two skin cancer categories.

A risk factor is something that increases the risk of developing cancer. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, sun lamps or tanning beds is the most important risk factor for melanoma.

Listed below are some resources available from the Patient & Family Library, located on the main floor atrium at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Learn about sun safety awareness, skin cancer signs, detection and diagnosis, and treatment options.

Brochures on Sun Safety & Skin Cancers

Pick up a free copy of these brochures at the library.

• Killer Tanning Facts, Canadian Cancer Society (PDF)
• Reduce Your Risk of Skin Cancer, Canadian Cancer Society (PDF)
• Non-melanoma Skin Cancer, Canadian Cancer Society (PDF)
• Melanoma, Canadian Cancer Society (PDF)
• Managing Lymphedema for the Melanoma Patient, Melanoma Network of Canada (PDF)
• Skin Cancer Information and Support Resources, University Health Network (PDF)
• What to Expect While Receiving Radiation Therapy for Cancers of the Skin, University Health Network (PDF)
• Melanoma Research Database, University Health Network (PDF)

Books

• What’s Up With Tiffany’s Dad? Medikidz explain melanoma. American Cancer Society Graphic novel for teens
• Quick Facts about Melanoma Skin Cancer. American Cancer Society

The first time you borrow resources, you will need to fill out a registration form and show valid identification with your name and address, such as a Driver’s License or UHN Hospital Card. Once you register with us, you may borrow resources for a 3 week loan from any of the UHN Patient & Family Libraries.

Online information on Skin Cancers

• University of Michigan skin check app: UMSkinCheck is intended for skin cancer self exam and tracker that allows users to complete and store a full body photographic library, track detected moles and lesions, access information on skin cancer and fill out a melanoma risk calculator.
• Canadian Cancer Society
• Canadian Dermatology Association
• The David Cornfield Melanoma Fund
• Melanoma Network of Canada
• Melanoma Research Foundation
• Save Your Skin

Library Hours & Contact

Monday – Thursday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm; Friday 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Phone: 416 946 4501 ext. 5383
Email: patienteducation@uhn.on.ca
Website: Princess Margaret Patient & Family Library