Cancer

Spectrum Health Offers Free Skin Cancer Screenings

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., May 3, 2018 – Skin cancer continues to be a concern for Michigan residents as the number of people diagnosed each year continues to be high.

The best way to find skin cancer in its earliest and most treatable stage is by self-checking regularly and having a dermatologist perform a focused skin cancer screening.

The Spectrum Health Cancer Center will again offer free community skin cancer screenings throughout West Michigan on Tuesday, May 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. to encourage people to get screened. The free screenings are being held in partnership with local dermatology providers, using the American Academy of Dermatology SPOTme® Screening Guidelines. Appointments are not required – walk-ins are welcome – and no blood work is needed. If a follow-up appointment is recommended, medical professionals will provide additional education and referral information.

Free screenings will be held at:

Spectrum Health Medical Group
426 Michigan Street NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Spectrum Health Medical Group
2111 12 Mile Road NW
Sparta, MI 49345

Spectrum Health Medical Group
588 E. Lakewood Boulevard
Holland, MI 49424

Spectrum Health South Pavilion
80 68th Street SE Suite 200
Cutlerville, MI 49548

Spectrum Health United Hospital Cancer Center
615 S. Bower Street
Greenville, MI 48838

The SPOTme® skin cancer screening is a visual inspection of uncovered skin and will be completed by a medical professional. These are not full body screenings. Attendees will be asked to share an area of concern with our participating dermatologists.

Here are the facts about skin cancer from the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Cancer Society and Sun Safety Alliance:

• 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime
• More than 3 million cases are diagnosed each year
• Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, kills one person every hour
• Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States
• Spending 4+ hours in the sun’s rays increases your risk
• Exposed areas are at higher risk: head, arms, legs, feet, top of chest and ears

The risk is even greater for children, who tend to be out in the sun more often than adults. Even one blistering sunburn can double a child’s lifetime risk of developing skin cancer.

If you have been diagnosed with cancer and would like a consultation or second opinion, call 1.855.SHCANCER (855.742.2623).

 

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Contact:
Sarina Gleason
Media Relations
Phone: 517.256.5618
Email: sarina.gleason@corewellhealth.org