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Beebe offers free skin cancer screenings May 7 to those who qualify

Reservations are necessary for this popular event
April 15, 2013

In recognition of May being Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Beebe Medical Center’s Tunnell Cancer Center will provide free skin cancer screenings Tuesday, May 7, for those who qualify. Local practitioners will perform skin examinations and give recommendations for follow-up. A cancer screening nurse navigator will be onsite to educate interested individuals about skin cancer prevention.

Reservations are necessary for this event, and those interested should call Cancer Screening Nurse Navigator Debbie Campbell, RN, at 302-645-3169.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. Melanoma accounts for less than 5 percent of skin cancer cases, but the majority of skin cancer deaths. The incidences of melanoma also are increasing. The major risk factor for skin cancer is ultraviolet light, including direct sunlight, and tanning bed light exposure.

The American Cancer Society says the use of sunscreens is one defense against harmful sun rays, and sunscreens rated higher provide more protection. Examination for early detection is another way to protect oneself. Melanoma caught in the early stage has a 90.6 percent survival rate.

Beebe Medical Center encourages people to protect themselves against damaging UV rays by avoiding being out in the sun in the middle of the day and by wearing protective clothing and sunscreen. People also should have annual skin examinations by a healthcare provider. More information is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/prevention.htm.

For more information, go to www.beebemed.org.

 

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