May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and CHRISTUS Cancer Treatment Center is hosting its 30th annual skin cancer screening event in partnership with Dermatology & Skin Surgery on Monday, May 17. Although the 2020 event was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions, the free event will be held this year following strict COVID safety protocols.
“We are all susceptible to skin cancer, but with early detection and proper treatment, the cure rate is very good. Choosing to undergo a short screening could be a potentially lifesaving decision,” said Dr. Jason Romero, dermatologist, Dermatology & Skin Surgery
The free event provides individuals an opportunity to be screened by a physician who can answer questions about irregular shaped moles, dark skin spots or areas that could become problematic. The screening event is scheduled for May 17 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Limited appointments are available and require pre-registration. To register call 1-844-CHRISTUS (247-4788).
“It is no exaggeration to say the annual CHRISTUS Cancer Treatment Center Skin Cancer Screening event saves lives. We are excited to bring this screening back once again and make it available in Shreveport-Bossier,” said Dr. Scott Boniol, Medical Director of CHRISTUS Cancer Treatment Center. “Skin cancer concerns can come with some scary sounding diagnoses like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma, but we are willing and able to offer support from diagnosis to treatment and long-term follow up.”
Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly five million people are treated for skin cancer each year. Nearly 7,000 people will die from Melanoma, the deadliest type, in 2021. 90% of all skin cancer is caused by Ultraviolet Radiation and sun exposure. Finding it early, when it’s small and has not spread, makes skin cancer much easier to treat.
“We spend lots of time outdoors during summer months. It is important that we take steps to protect ourselves from skin cancer and get the tests and screenings needed,” said Dr. Cooper Heard, dermatologist, Dermatology & Skin Surgery
The free skin screening is scheduled for Monday, May 17 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at CHRISTUS Cancer Treatment Center, 1453 E. Bert Kouns Ind. Loop, Shreveport. Individuals must pre-register by calling 1-844-CHRISTUS (247-4788). COVID safety precautions will be in place including:
Mask and temperature check required
Form completion in vehicle
Wait in vehicle rather than a crowded waiting room. Individuals will be notified via cell phone when it is time for their screening.
Results immediately available
*Attendees under 18-years-old must be accompanied by adult.