Dermatology Specialists to Host Free Skin Cancer Screenings in May for Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Dermatology Specialists will host free skin cancer screenings throughout the month of May, recognized as Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Over thirty free screening events will be held throughout Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi from May 1-31 to help detect skin cancer early in those adults who have not had a professional skin cancer screening within the past year.

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their lifetime—the most common types being basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. While less common, an estimated 200,000+ cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2024. Melanoma is considered a more dangerous skin cancer due to its tendency to spread. In fact, more than 2 people die of skin cancer (mostly melanoma) in the US every hour. Despite these staggering statistics, there is some good news—skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and it is highly curable when it is caught and treated early.

“Unlike other cancers, skin cancer can be seen on the surface of your skin,” said Dr. Jon Ward, Board-Certified Dermatologist and practice founder. “A skin cancer screening from a dermatologist is a visual exam that is painless, only takes a few minutes, and could save your life.” Dermatology Specialists began providing free skin cancer screenings in 2006 to fill a need in the communities they serve and provide necessary medical care to people throughout the southeastern United States. With thousands of free screenings performed since they began to offer this service, the skilled providers at Dermatology Specialists have provided life-saving diagnoses to many individuals.

A large part of the mission of Dermatology Specialists is educating patients on the part they play in lowering their risk of skin cancer. There are many simple sun safety tips recommended by dermatologists, including wearing sunscreen daily with SPF 30 or higher, limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds. Combined with monthly at-home self-checks and an annual skin exam from a dermatology professional, these easy steps form a great protection strategy, especially for individuals with a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Free screenings from Dermatology Specialists are available to anyone 18 years or older who has not had a professional skin exam within the last 12 months. Visit mydermspecialists.com/freescreening to see the full list of participating locations and dates. Appointments are required—call (877) 231-3376 to schedule.