Oncology Pharmacists Are Crucial in Skin Cancer Management
Source: Dermatology Times, April 2023
Skin cancer is the most diagnosed malignancy in the United States today, with the American Academy of Dermatology estimating that 20% of Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and approximately 9500 individuals in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer every day. Pharmacists play a vital role in educating patients on how to protect the skin from the sun, which limits risk factors of skin cancer, according to the California Pharmacists Association.
“Counseling patients about safe sun exposure enhances pharmacists’ professional satisfaction,” a spokesperson for the association said. “To provide effective patient education, pharmacists [must] keep abreast of new product developments and understand the detrimental effects of sun exposure.”
Pharmacists also play a big role during the treatment phase by explaining to patients how various medications work, reinforcing how they should best be taken, reviewing any potential adverse effects, and going over insurance and financial details.