On Monday, May 1st, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, Charleston dermatologists and certified dermatological providers are partnering to provide the public with free skin cancer screenings.
One such event will take place at the Dermatology & Laser Center of Charleston at 2180 Henry Tecklenburg Drive in West Ashley (near Lowes). Registration for the event is required and may be made by calling 843-556-8886 ext. 1101 or via www.dermandlaser.com.
The screenings are organized by Dr. Todd Schlesinger, a Board Certified Dermatologist, Dermasurgeon, and Cosmetic Dermatologist.
To raise awareness of melanoma and other types of skin cancer, and to encourage early detection through self-exams, the American Academy of Dermatology designates the first Monday in May as Melanoma Monday. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one person dies of melanoma every hour (actually every 52 minutes). Each year in the U.S., over 5.4 million cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer are treated in more than 3.3 million people. This year there will be more new cases of skin cancer than the combined incidence of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon.
Prevention starts with daily use of sunscreens, and protective clothing. It includes avoiding unprotected exposure to the sun and not using tanning beds. Learn to appreciate and care for your skin, the largest organ in the human body and the first line of defense against infection and disease.
