Recently, King Charles III of the United Kingdom visited the Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA). The institute’s co-directors, Professor Georgina Long AO and Professor Richard Scolyer AO, along with Associate Professor Linda Martin, discussed with King Charles III the institute’s significant ongoing work in the prevention and understanding of skin cancer. MIA is one of 16 Australian sites involved in the Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging & Diagnosis (ACEMID) initiative – the world’s largest melanoma cohort study. As part of this study, Canfield Scientific’s VECTRA^® WB360 whole-body imaging system is utilized to enhance screening examinations and revolutionize research in Australia, which has one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally.

The innovative VECTRA WB360 employs both cross-polarized and non-polarized lighting to generate incredibly detailed three-dimensional images of the entire body in a single capture. Powered by Canfield's state-of-the-art DermaGraphix® software, these images are pivotal in the surveillance of pigmented lesions. The software enables dermatologists to examine individual lesions, capture detailed dermoscopic images, and monitor skin changes over time. By utilizing this advanced technology, MIA aims to help dermatologists to better understand the contributing factors of skin cancer and develop effective preventative strategies and treatments.

During his visit to the institute, King Charles III met patients who have undergone this comprehensive imaging and received treatment there. Among them was Adam Brown, a patient of Professor Long, who has had a remarkable treatment journey and attended as inspiration for the work being done.

The King’s visit not only honored the institute’s achievements thus far but also raised awareness about the importance of prevention, early detection, and intervention. With the continued support of leaders like King Charles III, and the expertise of researchers like Professors Long and Scolyer, who were recently recognized as joint recipients of the 2024 Australian of the Year award for their pioneering contributions to skin cancer treatment, Australia moves one step closer to its goal of eradicating skin cancer by the end of the decade.

To learn more about the Melanoma Institute Australia and King Charles III’s visit, click here.

To learn more about VECTRA WB360, click here.