Dermatologists sponsor shade grants

Malignant melanoma, a skin cancer, is diagnosed each year in approximately 160,000 Americans, and overexposure to UV radiation (sunburn) in children is one of the biggest risk factors. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) awards grants of $8,000 to purchase permanent shade structures for daycares, schools and recreational programs where children play or learn outdoors. In August, the AAD awarded 34 grants, and applications for the 2010 Shade Structure Program will be available in mid-October. Criteria for selection include applicants that are nonprofits or public schools; serve children and teens 18 or younger; have a sun safety program at least one year prior to application; and are sponsored by an AAD member dermatologist. For application guidelines, see www.aad.org.