Free Skin Cancer Screenings Offered by Tulane Cancer Center

In recognition of National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the Tulane Cancer Center is offering free skin cancer screenings from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, May 24, at the Tulane Cancer Center Comprehensive Clinic, 150 S. Liberty St.

“Skin cancer screenings are a valuable tool for identifying suspect skin lesions in people who don"t normally have their skin checked,” said Dr. Alan Lewis, associate professor of dermatology at Tulane University School of Medicine. “Last year"s screenings allowed us to identify a number of patients with skin cancer who would otherwise have gone undiagnosed. This is very important, as early diagnosis and treatment is the best way to avoid the adverse outcomes associated with skin cancer.”

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 1 million unreported cases of basal or squamous cell cancers occur annually. Most, but not all of these forms of skin cancer are highly curable. The most common serious form of skin cancer is melanoma, which is expected to be diagnosed in approximately 68,720 persons this year; 8,650 of them will die of this disease. Those who have experienced severe sunburn or have a history of sun exposure, those with fair skin who burn easily and anyone experiencing a recent change in the appearance of a mole should consider being screened. Screenings involve a head-to-toe physical skin assessment by a Tulane dermatologist. All participants will receive a complimentary sample bottle of sun screen (SPF 30), and those requiring follow-up after screening will be encouraged to contact their personal physicians, or they will be referred to a Tulane physician.

An appointment for a free skin cancer screening is required. To make your appointment, call the Tulane Call Center at (504) 988-5800 or (800) 588-5800.

Complimentary parking is available in the Saratoga Parking Garage, located on the corner of Cleveland and Saratoga streets in downtown New Orleans. The Tulane Cancer Center Comprehensive Clinic is located on the ground floor of this building.

For more information, visit the Tulane Cancer Center Web site at tulane.edu/som/cancer
and click on “Free Skin Cancer Screenings.”