Our Mission: Dedicated to eradicating melanoma through the education of children and the community in the prevention and detection of skin cancer and the promotion of sun safety.

SHADE Foundation of America is a national 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization. We want to provide you with a resource to find great programs to educate children about sun safety and an opportunity for you to join us in making the world skin cancer free.

This year, more than two million Americans will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer. It is the fastest growing cancer and affects more people than prostate, breast, colorectal and cervical cancers combined. One person dies every hour from skin cancer and more than 75% of these deaths are from melanoma. The good news is, most skin cancer is preventable and if detected and treated early has a 95% cure rate.

• Even though skin cancer is the most common cancer, nearly half (48%) of women have NEVER been to a dermatologist and only 14% have been out of concern for skin cancer.
• 63% of respondents were shocked to learn that one person dies every hour from melanoma and 48% were surprised that there are more new cases of skin cancer than breast, prostrate, lung and colon cancers combined.
• Concern for cancer is high among women (70%), but drops 15 points when specifically talking about skin cancer (55%).
• When it comes to using sunscreen while being exposed to the sun, only one in five lather it on daily.
• Most women (87%) are concerned about some aspect of UV damage and skin cancer is the most frequently cited reason why.
• 55% of those surveyed knew someone diagnosed with skin cancer. 17% had an immediate family member and another 23% a more distant relative.
• Majorities of all demographic cohorts agreed it was NEVER acceptable to use indoor tanning beds. Of the 32% of respondents who had ever tanned indoors, just 7% were still currently using them. Apprehension about skin damage (59%) and skin cancer (49%) were the most frequently cited reasons for cutting back on their guilty pleasure. For those who have tried indoor tanning, 62% cited “I look better when I’m tan” as the #1 reason.
• 1/5 of respondents (20%) have been blistered a few times. 17% have endured this advanced type of sunburn five or more times, putting them at higher risk for melanoma.
• Over 3/4 (76%) said they would NOT let their child, or an important teenager in their life, go to a tanning salon before prom or a similar event.

Follow these easy sun safety tips: