Improving sun protection for melanoma survivors using mobile health tools
Official title: SESAME: Sun Exposure and Activities after Skin CAncer: Optimization of Mhealth IntErventions
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10872417 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a helpful mobile app for melanoma survivors that gives real-time tips on staying safe in the sun while also encouraging them to stay active, making it easier for them to protect their skin and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 13, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $331,781 |
| NIH project number | 1R34CA283480-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10872417 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are melanoma survivors who are 21 years or older and are looking for effective ways to manage their sun exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not melanoma survivors or those who do not engage in outdoor activities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing mobile health (mHealth) interventions to help melanoma survivors better protect themselves from harmful sun exposure. It aims to provide real-time information and feedback on sun protection while encouraging physical activity, which often declines after a melanoma diagnosis. By utilizing a framework called the Multiphase Optimization Strategy (MOST), the study seeks to refine existing intervention tools to maximize their effectiveness. The goal is to create a comprehensive approach that addresses both sun safety and the maintenance of an active lifestyle.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of new melanoma cases among survivors by improving their sun protection behaviors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using mobile health interventions for health behavior changes, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alshurafa, Nabil — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Alshurafa, Nabil
Related research
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Solar-powered sun protection for outdoor workers
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PASS: A family-based approach to sun safety in schools
A parent-focused program delivered through schools aims to help families protect children from sun exposure and reduce skin cancer risk.
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Precision skin cancer risk feedback in community clinics
A multisite study tests giving adults personalized genetic risk information to boost sun protection and skin checks in low-resource primary care settings.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.