Melanoma Advocacy, Education, and Support Groups

You'll be surprised at just how many organizations there are that are devoted to cancer. The following organizations provide a variety of programs, educational materials, and other forms of support for people with melanoma, their family members, caregivers, and friends. However, remember that this is not an endorsement of these organizations and the information they provide. You should always discuss any questions or concerns you have with your health care provider.

American Academy of Dermatology

http://www.aad.org

1-866-503-SKIN (7546)

This association provides patient care, supports research, and strives to improve and enhance treatments.  The website includes information about various skin diseases, news, and a section for children. 

American Cancer Society

http://www.cancer.org

1-800-ACS-2345

1-866-228-4327 for TTY

The American Cancer Society (ACS) is a national organization working to eradicate cancer through research, advocacy, and service.  Among its many services, the ACS has a call center that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to answer questions about cancer and link callers with resources in their communities. 

CancerCare

http://www.cancercare.org

Telephone: 1-800-813-4673

E-mail: info@cancercare.org

CancerCare, founded in 1944, is a national nonprofit organization that provides free, professional support services to anyone affected by cancer: people with cancer, caregivers, children, loved ones, and the bereaved. CancerCare programs–including counseling, education, financial assistance, and practical help–are provided by trained oncology social workers and are completely free. 

Melanoma Patients’ Information Page

http://www.mpip.org

This website includes information about melanoma staging, offers tools such as a prognostic calculator, and provides access to an online community, including a bulletin board and a chat room.

National Cancer Institute

http://www.cancer.gov

1-800-422-6237

TTY: 1-800-332-8615

The NCI is a federal organization and a component of the National Institute of Health. The NCI’s National Cancer Program supports and conducts research and distributes cancer information.  The website includes information about various cancer topics, research information, and cancer statistics. The website also includes a description of the NCI's initiative to eliminate cancer death and suffering by the year 2015.

Oncolink

http://www.oncolink.org

Cancer specialists from the University of Pennsylvania founded Oncolink to provide cancer information to cancer patients, health care professionals, and the general public.  The website includes information about various cancer topics, coping information, and an “Ask the Experts” section.  

Skin Cancer Foundation

http://www.skincancer.org

1-800-SKIN-490

This foundation works to increase skin cancer awareness, provides education, and supports research.  The website includes information about melanoma, self examination techniques, and treatment centers.