| Sep 02, 2011 |
Nanotechnology education is lacking in dermatology training
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(Nanowerk News) Members of the Nanodermatology Society (NDS), a physician-led organization dedicated to the scientific and medical aspects of nanotechnology and dermatology, recently published a pilot study evaluating knowledge, perceptions and attitudes regarding Nanotechnology amongst dermatologists in the United States.
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For years, Nanotechnology, the science of materials that are 1 billionth of a meter, has been utilized in sunscreens and cosmetics and even more recently, in prescription medication for the treatment of common skin diseases such as Acne. "In fact, several of the well known cosmetic companies are leading patent holders in nanotechnology. Why is it that nanodermatology has yet to become part of the everyday dermatology lexicon?" says Dr. Adam Friedman, Vice-President of the Nanodermatology Society, and first author of the study found in the September issue of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology ("Nanotechnology and Dermatology Education in the United States: Data From a Pilot Survey").
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The survey based study, entitled "Nanotechnology and dermatology education in the United States: Data from a pilot survey," revealed that although most dermatologists have very little experience with nanotechnology, they appreciate the potential of this science to enhance our ability to diagnose and treat skin disease. The majority of respondents agreed that more education and research on this subject is needed.
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"This study is the first to show the high level of interest in nanotechnology among dermatologists, and a need to include the topic in teaching and research in academic programs. Respondents clearly indicated a desire for more funding in nanotechnology education and for the development of the next generation of clinical tools," says Dr. Adnan Nasir, senior author and President of the Nanodermatology Society. Dr. Nasir explained that the results from this study are serving as the impetus for larger survey based studies to fully evaluate and expose the gap in nanotechnology education in dermatology training as well as highlight the areas of greatest importance to the dermatology community, such as issues of safety, as indicated in this study.
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"Our pilot study further highlights the need for organized educational programming and support of both bench and clinical research in nanotechnology within the scope of dermatology," explains Dr. Friedman. "The mission of the NDS is to further these goals however there needs to be a collaborative effort between all of the dermatology societies and governing bodies as the implications of nanodermatology are far reaching."
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The NDS is a non-profit organization founded in 2010 charged with monitoring nanotechnology as it relates to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of skin disease and evaluating their potential benefits or pitfalls.
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