Skin cancer screenings: 165 individuals screened, 58 referred for follow-up care
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June 8, 2011
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The Cancer Centers of Northern Arizona Healthcare (CCNAH) along with Northern Arizona Dermatology Center, conducted a free skin cancer screening, Saturday, June 4. The screening took place at CCNAH at Flagstaff Medical Center. Each participant received a free, full-body skin-cancer screening, skin-cancer education and additional information about sun safety.
Local dermatologists screened 165 people to help identify possible skin cancers. Of those screened, 58 participants were referred for further follow up and biopsy.
The American Academy of Dermatologists recommends adults should start annual skin screenings beginning at age 20 and continue throughout adulthood. Melanoma is the most common form of cancer for young adults 25-29 years old and the second most common form of cancer for adolescents and young adults 15-29 years old. In females 15-29 years old, the torso is the most common location for developing melanoma, which might be due to high-risk tanning behaviors. The five-year survival rate for people whose melanoma is detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes is 99 percent.
Early detection is the best protection against skin cancer. The vast majority of skin cancers can be cured if diagnosed and treated early. For more information about the Cancer Centers of Northern Arizona Healthcare visit CCNAH.com.
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