Practice Safe Skin: Sunscreen Dispenser RFP Now Open

BOSTON, Jan. 23, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Melanoma Foundation of New England (MFNE), a non-profit aimed at reducing the incidence of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, announced today that non-profits, private businesses and municipalities now have the opportunity to apply for sunscreen dispensers for their communities. A limited number are available for free to anyone that applies via an online RFP process. Dispensers are also available for purchase. This sunscreen distribution program, called Practice Safe Skin, offers an effective preventive measure to help visitors avoid sun over-exposure in public and private recreation areas including playgrounds, ski areas, beaches, civic buildings and amusement parks.

The RFP process for municipalities and non-profits runs January 23 – February 17, 2017. Businesses and organizations seeking to purchase units can do so via mfne.org. All public and private units will be installed by spring/summer 2017.

Melanoma is rising faster than any other cancer with one person every 50 minutes dying from the disease. However, a recent study conducted by the University of Colorado Medical cited melanoma rates decreasing in the Northeast. "The Northeast, specifically New England, is the only US geographic region in which most states experienced a reduction in both death and incidence rates. Strong skin cancer prevention programs likely played a role in this region's success," the study was quoted. "For example, the Melanoma Foundation of New England, a nonprofit organization founded in 1999, became more active over the period we assessed. Recently, the foundation launched the Practice Safe Skin initiative, which funded sunscreen dispensers in public and recreational areas throughout Boston and expanded to include other New England cities.⁶ Such programs may enhance public awareness about skin cancer and may suppress the continual rise in melanoma" (Reference).

"Creating change in behavior is a process that takes time," said Deb Girard, Executive Director of The Melanoma Foundation of New England. "The results of this study indicate that our programs, which have been in place for a decade, are a consistent voice of the melanoma prevention message and they're making a substantial impact."

Following the success of this program, the Practice Safe Skin initiative continues to expand nationwide and can now be seen in all 50 states. Additionally, the MFNE will be attending the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting in Orlando, FL, March 3-5, exhibiting at booth number 3589.

Sunscreen dispensers hold a 1000 mL bag of sunscreen, for 670 applications per bag. The all-natural SPF-30 sunscreen is safe for people aged 6-months and up with an all-natural blend of 6% zinc and 6% titanium. Our Sport Sunscreen with SPF 30 is a hybrid that includes both mineral and chemical components. Great for swimming and active sports enthusiasts or where sweating is a concern. Our ingredients are carefully chosen to give you the best possible solution when maximum protection is needed. Block the sun not the fun. All of the ingredients will be printed on the machines upon installation, and are available upon request.

For more information about the RFP process or to inquire about pricing, see www.PracticeSafeSkin.org, call 1-800-557-6352 or email [email protected]. Follow us via #PracticeSafeSkin!

SOURCE Melanoma Foundation of New England