AAD Launches PSA Campaign on Dangers of Indoor Tanning

SCHAUMBURG, IL--(Marketwire - May 5, 2008) - In recognition of Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month®, the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) releases a new public service advertisement (PSA) campaign and news, and coordinates several activities to raise awareness about skin cancer and to encourage Americans to practice sun-safe behaviors.

"Indoor Tanning is Out"

The Academy is launching a new PSA campaign, "Indoor Tanning is Out," that features innovative print, television and radio advertisements designed to reach young women with the message that indoor tanning is not as safe as they think. The Academy is targeting this group since research shows 70 percent of indoor tanners are female, primarily 16 to 29 years old, and indoor tanning before the age of 35 has been associated with a significant increase in the risk of melanoma.

Skin Cancer News

In addition, this kit includes the Academy's latest news and research on skin cancer, including:

--  New Studies Support Dermatologists' Recommendation: Self-Exams,
    Screenings Vital for Detecting Skin Cancer
--  Warning: New Skin Cancer Study Finds Outdoor Workers are Less Likely
    to Get Screened for Skin Cancer
--  Recent Advances Make Sunscreen More Effective and Easier to Use
--  Making the Outdoors Safer for Communities: The American Academy of
    Dermatology Announces 2008 AAD Shade Structure Program Grant Recipients
    

Additional Academy Skin Cancer Initiatives

This kit also includes information about several Academy initiatives and programs that support its commitment to skin cancer detection and prevention, including:

Melanoma Monday®

In 1995, the Academy established the first Monday in May as Melanoma Monday® to raise awareness about this potentially fatal type of skin cancer and to encourage Americans to practice sun-safe behaviors and examine their skin for suspicious moles and lesions.

http://www.melanomamonday.org

Academy National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Screening Program

Since its inception in 1985, the Academy's National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Screening Program has screened more than 1.8 million people across the country and detected more than 180,170 suspicious lesions.

http://www.aad.org/public/exams/screenings/index.html

AAD Shade Structure Program

http://www.aad.org/public/sun/grants.html

The American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at (888) 462-DERM or www.aad.org.

To view this release online, go to: http://www.pwrnewmedia.com/2008/aad050508/index.html

Contact Information: CONTACTS Jennifer Allyn (847) 240-1730 Scott Carl (847) 240-1701 Allison Sit (847) 240-1746