The Beyer Family Skin Cancer Prevention and Control Initiative is launching in South Florida, aiming to reduce the incidence of skin cancer through targeted education, early detection programs, and advanced research. Supported by Tony and Vanessa Beyer, the initiative integrates prevention strategies with comprehensive care at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Addressing Melanoma in Florida
Florida has the second-highest number of new melanoma cases in the U.S., with approximately 9,640 new diagnoses each year. Dr. Natalia Jaimes, who leads the initiative, emphasizes the importance of prevention and early detection. "We are excited to launch this initiative to begin making an impact through prevention and early detection," said Dr. Jaimes.
Survivor's Gratitude Fuels Initiative
Tony Beyer, a melanoma survivor, credits Dr. José Lutzky and his team at Sylvester for saving his life. Following his successful treatment, the Beyers have donated to Sylvester to raise awareness and improve outcomes for skin cancer patients. "The cutting-edge and comprehensive care from Dr. Lutzky and his team saved my life," Beyer stated.
Targeted Prevention Programs
The initiative includes age-specific programs designed to instill sun protection habits in young people. Children aged 4 to 11 will learn to prioritize shade and wear protective clothing, while teenagers will be encouraged to adopt lifelong healthy behaviors, including sun protection and skin monitoring. Dr. Jaimes noted that "up to 50% of total ultraviolet radiation occurs in the first 20 years of life," highlighting the importance of early intervention.
The initiative also focuses on training frontline professionals, such as primary care providers, hairstylists, and massage therapists, to recognize early signs of skin issues and encourage dermatologist visits when necessary.
Comprehensive Patient Support
Melanoma patients and their families will have access to comprehensive care, including early detection options, accurate diagnoses, genetic counseling, and lifestyle medicine resources. A dedicated coordinator will guide them through Sylvester’s resources, providing access to specialists, interactive workshops, risk assessments, and support groups.
Advancing Melanoma Research
The Beyer's gift also supports Dr. Lutzky’s research on uveal and cutaneous melanoma. This includes funding for a clinical trial for ocular melanoma patients at high risk of recurrence, using a promising medication identified by Bascom Palmer Eye Institute’s ocular oncology group. The trial is set to launch in early 2025 at Sylvester and nine other U.S. cancer centers.
The funding will also support correlative studies for a mid-2025 study of a new oncolytic virus and immunotherapy in melanoma and will establish a prospective and retrospective melanoma and skin cancer database. "Philanthropy allows us to generate critical data needed for future grants, advancing research in rare, underfunded cancers," said Dr. Lutzky.
