The University of Minnesota Department of Dermatology will offer free skin cancer screenings May 1, 2006, at the Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Center as part of Melanoma Monday, an event designed to raise awareness of skin cancer and encourage regular skin examinations.
Skin cancers are the most common type of cancer, and fall into three categories: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most commonly diagnosed, with more than 1 million new cases in the United States every year, while squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type with more than 400,000 new cases each year. Melanoma is rarer but is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Yet, like most forms of skin cancer, it can be treated if caught early.
"We are trying to teach our patients and the public the basics of sun safety, including wearing proper clothing, using adequate sun screen, and practicing sun avoidance," said Peter Lee, M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor of dermatology and director of the University's Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Center.
"We also recommend routine self skin examinations and annual skin checks with a dermatologist or a physician," Lee said.
Cases can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on areas most exposed to the sun, such as the back and shoulders for men and legs for women. People should watch for moles that change in size, color or shape. An asymmetrical mole, a darkly pigmented mole, or one with an irregular border should raise a red flag. A mole does not have to be raised to be
dangerous-in many cases, flat, dark lesions are cause for concern.
