Dermatologists to offer free skin cancer screenings May 9-13

Local dermatologists will offer free skin cancer screenings to promote early detection and prevention of skin cancers during the week of May 9-13, 2011. Morning and afternoon appointments will be available at several locations throughout the region. Because space is limited, appointments are required.

To schedule an appointment at Wright State University, Atrium Medical Center, Samaritan Sleep Center or Miami Valley Hospital South locations, call CareFinders at (866) 608-3463. To schedule an appointment at Conover Health Plus, Greene Memorial Hospital or Kettering Sports Medicine locations, call (937) 558-3988. The deadline to schedule appointments is May 4.

The screenings are offered annually each May as part of National Skin Cancer Awareness Month to promote early detection and teach prevention of skin cancer. The free screenings are sponsored by the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine Department of Dermatology, along with the American Academy of Dermatology, Atrium Medical Center, Good Samaritan Hospital, Greene Memorial Hospital, Kettering Health Network, Miami Valley Hospital, Premier Community Health and Wright State University.

“Skin cancer is one of the more preventable cancers,” said Julian Trevino, M.D., associate professor and chair of the WSU Department of Dermatology. “It’s also very treatable if caught early, so if something looks suspicious, a screening can be life saving.

“It’s important to understand that skin cancer affects people of all races and color, so everyone should learn how to recognize the warning signs,” he said. “This is one reason so many dermatologists from throughout the Dayton region are teaming up to raise awareness and offer free screenings. We know this can save lives.”

The free screenings will also include optional DermaScan™ viewing, which uses ultraviolet (UV) light to reveal sun damage invisible to the naked eye.

According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common of all cancers.  It was estimated that over 68,000 new melanomas were diagnosed in the United States last year alone, and incidence rates continue to rise. And although melanoma accounts for fewer skin cancer cases, it causes most skin cancer deaths.

The best way to prevent or lower the risk of skin cancer is to practice sun safety by limiting sun exposure and protecting the skin with proper clothing and sunscreens.

Skin cancer screening dates and locations

*For appointment, call (937) 558-3988

**For appointment, call (866) 608-3463

For more information contact: Boonshoft School of Medicine Marketing and Communications, Cindy Young at (937) 775-4839 or cindy.young@wright.edu.