Dados do Resumo

Título

Implementation of skin cancer prevention strategies and early diagnosis: an experience report

Introdução

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers at the worldwide level with an increasing incidence due to factors such as excessive sun exposure and risky behaviors. For the 2023-2025 triennium, the national estimative for non-melanoma skin cancer is 220, 490 new cases. Although melanoma has a lower incidence, its high lethality is concerning. Early detection and effective prevention are essential to reduce mortality and improve the prognosis of these types of cancer.

Objetivo

To report the experience in organizing and implementing a skin cancer prevention and early diagnosis campaign in a city on the coast of São Paulo.

Métodos

This is a descriptive study in the form of an experience report on the organization and implementation of a skin cancer prevention and early diagnosis awareness campaign conducted in the coastal city of São Paulo. The initiative is part of a program called “Missão,” promoted by the A.C. Camargo Cancer Center in partnership with the Santos Municipal Health Department. The process included defining the target audience, objectives, and necessary infrastructure, and formulating communication strategies to maximize the campaign's outreach. The campaign focused on three main areas: education and awareness, screening for suspicious lesions, and the incorporation of emerging technologies. Innovative approaches were employed to enhance the effectiveness of skin cancer prevention and early diagnosis strategies. Planning tools such as Canvas and the Project Breakdown Structure were used to organize the stages and monitor activities.

Resultados

In 2024, a skin cancer prevention and early diagnosis campaign was organized and implemented. The campaign's execution involved the collaboration of 104 professionals, with 48 actively participating on the event day. The team included doctors, nurses, and community health workers. The campaign infrastructure was set up with tents along the beachfront and comprised various activities: Artificial Intelligence-assisted self-assessment for risk identification; interactive awareness sessions; screening for the evaluation of suspicious lesions with AI support; and guidance and referral for specialized consultations. Residents of Santos were able to schedule appointments at the specialty outpatient clinic. The event attracted more than 500 people, with 291 participants in the self-assessment and interactive session, 135 in the screening, and 39 scheduled consultations. The campaign reached over 318,000 people through communication channels, including television, newspapers, and social media.

Conclusões

The campaign's implementation, carried out through a partnership between a public and a private institution and integrating various activities, including using advanced digital resources, proved effective in engaging the population in early diagnosis and prevention of skin cancer. The campaign not only promoted awareness about skin health but also mobilized the media, broadening the dissemination of knowledge and reinforcing the importance of prevention.

Financiador do resumo

Não se aplica.

Palavras Chave

Primary Prevention; Early Detection of Cancer; Skin Neoplasms