Menu
20/03/2012
Hairdressers Could Receive Skin Cancer Training
Hairdressers can and should be trained to check their clients for skin cancer, say health experts.
There is currently no general screening for skin cancer in the UK and despite estimates that almost 100,000 new cases of are detected each year, many cases can go undetected for years.
Lesions on the scalp and the back of the neck can easily go unnoticed, and experts say hairdressers are the ideal people to spot these.
Writing in the latest edition of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, US doctors say: "We should not wait for our patients with skin cancer to come to us when it may be too late, but use research and outreach methods to improve early detection of head and neck melanomas by capitalising on the role of hairdressers and their unique relationship with our potential clients."
Hairdressers would not of course be expected to make a diagnosis, but to let a client know of any lumps, bumps or sores they happen to find so that the client could then speak to their doctor.
Anecdotal research suggests such training is achievable, and work carried out by Nottingham City Hospital NHS Trust found of those hairdressers polled most were keen to do take on the extra responsibility.
In 2010, the Melanoma Taskforce, a panel of UK skin cancer experts chaired by Sian James MP, produced a set of guidelines for hairdressers and beauty therapists to help them identify malignant melanoma and two other common, less aggressive forms of skin cancer - basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
The British Association of Dermatologists, a charity that is part of the taskforce, said: "It would be dangerous to suggest that such a small amount of 'training' qualifies health and beauty professionals to diagnose skin cancer.
"However, they can help in spotting changes to the skin in places that their clients can't usually see."
(H)
There is currently no general screening for skin cancer in the UK and despite estimates that almost 100,000 new cases of are detected each year, many cases can go undetected for years.
Lesions on the scalp and the back of the neck can easily go unnoticed, and experts say hairdressers are the ideal people to spot these.
Writing in the latest edition of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, US doctors say: "We should not wait for our patients with skin cancer to come to us when it may be too late, but use research and outreach methods to improve early detection of head and neck melanomas by capitalising on the role of hairdressers and their unique relationship with our potential clients."
Hairdressers would not of course be expected to make a diagnosis, but to let a client know of any lumps, bumps or sores they happen to find so that the client could then speak to their doctor.
Anecdotal research suggests such training is achievable, and work carried out by Nottingham City Hospital NHS Trust found of those hairdressers polled most were keen to do take on the extra responsibility.
In 2010, the Melanoma Taskforce, a panel of UK skin cancer experts chaired by Sian James MP, produced a set of guidelines for hairdressers and beauty therapists to help them identify malignant melanoma and two other common, less aggressive forms of skin cancer - basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
The British Association of Dermatologists, a charity that is part of the taskforce, said: "It would be dangerous to suggest that such a small amount of 'training' qualifies health and beauty professionals to diagnose skin cancer.
"However, they can help in spotting changes to the skin in places that their clients can't usually see."
(H)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
23 May 2005
Britons ‘confused’ over sun warnings
Britons are missing out on vital weather warnings that could reduce their risk of developing skin cancer, new research has revealed.
Britons ‘confused’ over sun warnings
Britons are missing out on vital weather warnings that could reduce their risk of developing skin cancer, new research has revealed.
05 August 2011
Building Trade 'Must Act On Skin Cancer'
Construction union UCATT are calling on the construction industry to take decisive action to ensure that the risk of construction workers developing skin cancer is dramatically reduced.
Building Trade 'Must Act On Skin Cancer'
Construction union UCATT are calling on the construction industry to take decisive action to ensure that the risk of construction workers developing skin cancer is dramatically reduced.
08 April 2011
Under 18s Protected From Sunbed Dangers
Businesses will face fines of up to £20,000 if they allow under 18s to use sunbeds from today. The Sunbeds Regulation Act 2010 aims to protect under 18s in search of a year-round tan from putting their health at risk. Over-exposure to the UV rays has become the main cause of skin cancer.
Under 18s Protected From Sunbed Dangers
Businesses will face fines of up to £20,000 if they allow under 18s to use sunbeds from today. The Sunbeds Regulation Act 2010 aims to protect under 18s in search of a year-round tan from putting their health at risk. Over-exposure to the UV rays has become the main cause of skin cancer.
30 October 2006
'Sticking plaster' hope for skin cancer
A new light-emitting 'sticking plaster' to be used in the treatment of skin cancer, has been developed by Scottish scientists. Researchers at the University of St Andrews and Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, developed the new device, which builds on established photodynamic therapy treatment methods.
'Sticking plaster' hope for skin cancer
A new light-emitting 'sticking plaster' to be used in the treatment of skin cancer, has been developed by Scottish scientists. Researchers at the University of St Andrews and Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, developed the new device, which builds on established photodynamic therapy treatment methods.
01 September 2010
Half of Britons Get Sunburnt
Almost half of Britons got sunburnt this year and many of them would risk burning again in order to get a tan, a new survey has revealed. The research, commissioned by Superdrug and Cancer Research UK, found that 46 per cent of those surveyed got sunburnt this summer, with 32 per cent of those admitting that they do so in their pursuit of a tan.
Half of Britons Get Sunburnt
Almost half of Britons got sunburnt this year and many of them would risk burning again in order to get a tan, a new survey has revealed. The research, commissioned by Superdrug and Cancer Research UK, found that 46 per cent of those surveyed got sunburnt this summer, with 32 per cent of those admitting that they do so in their pursuit of a tan.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
