practicaldermatology.com
The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention recognized George Washington University as a Skin Smart Campus for its ongoing commitment to fostering a safe and healthy learning environment, with a focus on skin cancer prevention and UV safety, the university announced.
The Skin Smart Campus initiative honors schools that prioritize skin cancer prevention by eliminating indoor tanning devices, promoting educational outreach, and adopting policies to protect students, faculty, and staff from harmful UV exposure.
GW has committed to keeping indoor tanning devices off campus and out of all affiliated buildings.
“Being named a Skin Smart Campus is a testament to our commitment to raising awareness about the dangers of UV exposure and skin cancer, and providing our community with the tools to make informed decisions,” Adam Friedman, MD, FAAD, Professor and Chair of Dermatology at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences, said in a press release.
As part of the Skin Smart Campus initiative, GW developed a dedicated web page to raise awareness about skin cancer prevention and UV safety. The page includes vital information on how to protect oneself from harmful UV exposure, the risks associated with indoor tanning and tips for safe sun practices.
“This is incredibly rewarding,” Nikkia Zarabian and Savanna Vidal, GW SMHS medical students and program co-leads, said in the press release. "The Skin Smart Campus recognition is just one step in our ongoing work to promote health, safety, and well-being for the GW community. We’re grateful for the support of Dr. Friedman, Dr. Sarah Millan, and the GW Student Government Association for making this program a success.”
GW will also receive two free sunscreen dispensers and a year’s supply of sunscreen from NCSCP, in partnership with IMPACT Melanoma. These dispensers will be installed at key outdoor locations on campus, providing students, faculty, and staff with convenient access to sunscreen.