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Melanoma is the most common lethal cutaneous neoplasm. In order to harmonize treatment and follow-up of melanoma patients, guidelines for the management of melanoma in Switzerland have been inaugurated in 2001. These have been approved by all Swiss medical societies involved in the care of melanoma patients. New data necessitated changes concerning the safety margins (reduction to maximally 2 cm) and modifications of the recommendations of follow-up.

Background: The melanoma incidence has increased over recent decades. Educational campaigns aim to encourage protection from the sun and early detection of melanoma., Methods: During a campaign in Switzerland, information on risk factors, sun protection and melanoma prevention was distributed. 10987 people completed a questionnaire regarding risk factors, and 2746 people were examined by a dermatologist., Results: Men had a higher risk as assessed by skin type, ultraviolet exposure, family history, number of moles and sunburns during childhood. Changes in moles were reported significantly more often by people with: (1). a positive family history (p < 0.0001); (2). multiple moles (p < 0.0001), and (3). sunburns during childhood (p < 0.0001). A precancerous or cancerous condition was suspected in 16% of individuals examined., Conclusion: Early detection of melanoma can be achieved by this type of campaign. Primary prevention is a long-term approach and educational efforts targeting risk groups must be continued., (Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel)

Melanoma is the most common lethal cutaneous neoplasm. There is major controversy over the best management of this malignancy. In order to harmonize treatment and follow-up of melanoma patients, guidelines for the management of melanoma in Switzerland have been inaugurated. They have been approved by all Swiss medical societies involved in the care of melanoma patients., (Copyright 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel)