Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute Free Skin Cancer Screenings

Winchester Hospital physicians will be available to evaluate particular areas of concern and provide educational materials from 6 to 8:15 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18 and Thursday, May 19 at Winchester Hospital’s Hematology-Oncology Center, 88 Montvale Ave. in Stoneham. Registration is required by calling the Community Health Institute at (781) 756-4700.

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 2 million cases of basal and squamous cell (non-melanoma) skin cancers and more than 68,000 cases of malignant melanoma (the most serious form of skin cancer) were diagnosed last year in the U.S. In 2010, about 8,700 people died from melanoma which is among the fastest rising cancers in the U.S.

Sunburns, the markers of intense ultraviolet radiation (UV) exposure, remain common among adolescents despite extensive publicity around skin cancer prevention messages and evidence that excessive sun exposure in childhood contributes to the risk of skin cancers later in life. Susceptibility to UV damage is higher among individuals with fair skin, a family history of skin cancer, the presence of moles and freckles or a history of severe sunburns early in life.

Fortunately, skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer. To protect against UV radiation, the American Cancer Society recommends:

• Wear protective clothing in the sun. Wear a hat that shades the face, neck and ears. Plan outdoor activities to avoid the midday sun.
• Examine the skin regularly. Suspicious lesions or progressive changes in a lesion’s appearance or size should be evaluated promptly by a physician.
• Wear sunglasses to protect eyes from UV light.
• Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher and apply a generous amount (about a palmful) 15 to 20 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply sunscreen as necessary throughout the day, especially after swimming, perspiring or towel drying. Use sunscreen even on hazy days.
• Avoid artificial sources of UV light such as sunlamps and tanning beds.
• Remember this important sun safety tip: “Slip! Slop! Slap!” Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and slap on a hat.

About Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute

Winchester Hospital’s Community Health Institute is committed to helping community members take responsibility for their health and well-being by offering the education and resources that change lives. Established in 1996, the Community Health Institute provides more than 30 programs and services throughout the year, with offerings in disease management, childbirth, integrative therapies, fitness, yoga, Tai Chi/Qi Gong, CPR and first aid, weight management, career services and support groups. The institute is also home to two retail services: A Caring Place, which features wigs, bras, prostheses and head coverings for women living with cancer; and the Lactation Center Boutique, which offers the highest quality breastfeeding supplies and support. Unless otherwise indicated within the program’s description, for more information or to register, please call the Community Health Institute at (781) 756-4700 or visit www.winchesterhospital.org/chi.