By Allison Peck
SIDNEY, Neb. — In recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Sidney Regional Medical Center is offering a free mole screening event to help area residents take a proactive approach to their skin health.
The “Free Mole Check Day” is scheduled for Monday, May 4, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Conference Rooms 1 and 2 at Sidney Regional Medical Center. The screenings will be conducted by Brooke Schoening, FNP, and are open to the public on a walk-in basis with no appointment required.
The event is designed to promote early detection, which medical professionals say is key in successfully treating skin cancer. According to information included in the event materials, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and one in five Americans will develop it by the age of 70.
Health officials also note that repeated sun exposure significantly increases risk. Having five or more sunburns can double a person’s likelihood of developing melanoma, one of the most serious forms of skin cancer.
Despite those risks, there is encouraging news. When detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable, making routine checks and screenings an important step in prevention and early intervention.
The free screenings are intended as an initial check only, and additional diagnostic testing may be recommended if any concerns are identified during the visit.
Sidney Regional Medical Center encourages community members to stop by during the event to learn more about skin cancer prevention and overall skin health. For more information, residents can contact the medical center at 308-254-5825.