Our Mission

Skin of Steel recognizes that Melanoma is now the world's fastest growing cancer, claiming one life per hour.  This disease is one of the most genetically complex cancers. Melanoma currently costs over $290 million dollars annually in health care expenses but remains severely underfunded in terms of research. Despite advancements in medicine and two newly approved FDA drugs, the melanoma death rate remained static over the past 30 years while the incidence has tripled.  Only six FDA approved therapies for metastatic melanoma exist. Most benefit a very small patient minority, often far below 20%.  One has a mean durability of 5.6 months.  There is a real need for better tools to gauge susceptibility. More effective options for prevention, diagnosis, and prognosis are urgently needed if personalized treatment is ever to become a reality.  In light of this situation,

Skin of Steel's mission is to develop Chicago as a recognized destination for comprehensive Melanoma treatment and research by fast tracking local research with translational potential, supporting collaboration and raising overall awareness.


We strive to provoke change in:

  • lifestyles to incorporate sun safe awareness and early detection through skin exams
  • access to enable the most advanced treatment options for all
  • treatment to take advantage of combination and individualized therapies, comprehensive care, and integrative and complimentary medicine

  • access to tumor mutation testing and development of tumor and tissue banking

  • post treatment to include monitoring and data collection

  • research to advance new lines as well as translational research

  • strategic use of advocacy for patients, researchers and those who fund treatment and research

     


**Disclaimer: Skin of Steel is devoted to educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or substitute professional medical care. Information provided by SOS should not be used for diagnosing or treating a skin problem or disease. If you have or suspect you have a skin problem please consult with a dermatologist, or other qualified professional healthcare provider.