Thumbnail: An example acquisition using the DermaGraphix IntelliStudio. (Image Source: Canfield Scientific, Inc.)
Systematic Melanoma Assessment and Risk Triaging Study (SMART) has been awarded a 2022 Cancer Center pilot grant for a budget of $50,000. The funds will be used for a mass screening effort on Oahu using novel imaging technology.
The SMART study aims to reduce morbidity, mortality, and costs for melanoma and other skin cancers by using screening and monitoring programs for early detection. Thanks to funding from Cancer Center Support Grant (P30CA071789), this new pilot study titled “Exploring use of Full Body Two-Dimensional Photograph Combined with Artificial Intelligence to Investigate the Etiology of Skin Cancer Lesions” can begin.
The study will use a novel two-dimensional total body sequential examination imaging platform (2D-TBSE) to conduct imaging of participants’ skin lesions. This will be the first on-island 2D-TBSE system for whole-body scanning of individuals at high risk of skin cancer.
The system will be set up at the University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center, although it also has to potential to be mobile. As soon as the 2D-TBSE system is ready, screening is expected to begin.
Regardless of skin complexion or ethnicity, everyone is at risk for skin cancer. Skin cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer, with more than 5 million new cases diagnosed in the United States (US) each year. This study’s aims can help to combat cancer by improving the accuracy and accessibility of screening technology.