SPOTS is a community outreach program that aims to educate students from preschool through high school about prevention and early detection of skin cancer.

The American Skin Association (ASA)’s SPOTS (Sun Protection Outreach Teaching by Students) program was selected as one of five "Top Projects" in North America by the International Awards for Social Responsibility in Dermatology. 

The awards are a partnership between the World Congress of Dermatology (WCD), the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS), and L'Oreal. 

These awards recognize dermatologists leading high-impact projects in three categories: prevention and education on skin health; improved quality of life and self-esteem for people facing skin issues; and access to care coverage and surgery. In addition to the five overall winners, five "Top Projects" are selected from each of the geographic regions: North America, South and Central America, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. 

SPOTS, run by Dr. Sofia Chaudhry of Saint Louis University and Drs. Laurin Council and Lynn Cornelius of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, is a community outreach program that aims to educate students from preschool through high school about prevention and early detection of skin cancer. The program, led by medical students, engages children in activities, sharing personal stories, and a focus on skin of color. More than 40 medical schools have incorporated the SPOTS program.

"ASA is proud to announce SPOTS' well-deserved recognition as it continues its dual-purpose mission of educating medical students to be better health care providers, along with its community outreach and focus on skin of color," says ASA Chairman Howard P. Milstein, in a news release.

"Education about sun safety is the key to a world with less skin cancer and the SPOTS team is paving the way for success in prevention," says ASA President Dr. David A. Norris.

"Dr. Chaudhry and her team work tirelessly to educate school-aged children about sun protection and skin cancer prevention. It only seems fitting that SPOTS should be selected as one of the five "Top Projects" in its region. Increasing awareness of behaviors and education of the consequences of sun exposure are at the heart of the mission of the American Skin Association," adds Humberto C. Antunes, Co-Chair of the ASA's Education Council.