Baystate Franklin Medical Center to Screen for Skin Cancer

GREENFIELD — The Oncology Department at Baystate Franklin Medical Center and dermatologist Dr. Joel Gordon, will co-sponsor a free skin-cancer screening on Friday, May 16, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. in the BFMC Oncology Department.

During the screening, Gordon will examine new growths that are less than one year old, as well as old growths that have changed in color, size, shape, or pain level, or are causing irritation or bleeding. The screening is not intended for individuals with skin rashes or for those who have seen a dermatologist within the past year.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), skin cancer is the most prevalent of all types of cancers. In the U.S. alone, more than 2 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed annually, and the incidence of skin cancer is increasing. Sun and indoor tanning are the leading causes of skin cancer. People most likely to get skin cancer are those who spend a lot of time in the sun, use tanning beds or sun lamps, or live (or once lived) in an area that gets intense sunlight, such as Florida.

“Though prevention is obviously the best course to take against skin cancer, early detection is the next best solution,” Gordon said. “If you do have melanoma, it can be cured if it is diagnosed and treated early. If it is not removed in its early stage, cancer cells may grow downward from the skin surface and spread into the body, making it potentially more dangerous.”

Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register or for more information on skin-cancer prevention and detection, call Baystate Health Link at (413) 773-2454 or (800) 377-4325.