FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING
THE LASER CENTER AT CONTOUR DERMTOLOGYTO OFFER FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENINGFRIDAY, SEPT. 8, PALM SPRINGS
PALM SPRINGS, CA – (September 5, 2006) The Laser Center at Contour Dermatology is holding a free Skin Cancer Screening Day on Friday, Sept. 8, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Reservations are required. Those interested in receiving a full-body skin cancer screening or have a specific concern about a particular spot on their skin should call 416-6971 to make an appointment. Approximately 40 patients will be able to be seen throughout the screening day.
The free screenings will take place at the Palm Springs offices of The Laser Center at Contour Dermatology which is located at 555 East Tachevah Drive, Suite 2E-106. Nurse Practitioner Elaine Woo-Gallagher will conduct the screening. “It’s imperative for people to understand the importance of visiting their dermatologist’s office for annual skin cancer screenings,” commented Woo-Gallagher. “Consistent screenings may lead to early detection which can prove to be life-saving,” she stated.
More than one million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year – that’s more than all other cancers combined. Malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, accounts for just five percent of all cancers but leads to 75 percent of deaths from the disease. The good news is that when skin cancer is detected and treated early, the majority of cases are curable.If skin cancer is detected, Dr. Timothy Jochen, The Laser Center at Contour Dermatology’s board certified dermatologist, is an expert in the procedure called Mohs micrographic surgery, a specialized, highly effective technique for the removal of skin cancer.
Following are several key points to consider and remember about Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention:
The Keys to Skin Cancer Detection
Routine dermatologist and self-examinations of the skin increase the chances of detecting skin cancer early, before treatment becomes more challenging.
Schedule an annual screening appointment to increase your chances of detecting and treating melanoma. A skin cancer screening is an easy, non-invasive two to three minute visual inspection of the entire body by a trained specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases and conditions.
Know your body. Examine skin at least once a month, searching for any spots or moles that seem to have changed size, color or shape. Focus on your neck, chest and torso, and use a bright light, full-length mirror, hand-mirror and blow dryer to inspect hard-to-see areas such as the scalp and back of the neck. Know your “ABCDs of moles and melanoma” so you can alert your dermatologic surgeon to any of the following key cancer warning signs: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variability and Diameter larger than a pencil eraser.
The Keys to Skin Cancer Prevention
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and one of the few cancers where the cause of the majority of cases is known: excessive sun exposure. While some people are more at risk than others, anyone, regardless of skin color or age can develop skin cancer. Protect skin every day, rain or shine, whatever the season, because the UVA/B rays you are exposed to during your daily routine puts skin at risk every time you step outside or even sit near a window.
Apply a daily moisturizer with broad-spectrum sun protection of at least SPF 15 every day before going outside. Avoid sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when ultraviolet (UV) radiation is most harmful Wear wide-brimmed hats, long sleeved shirts, long pants and UV-protective sunglasses for protection. Become an expert on sun protection.
About The Laser Center at Contour Dermatology
The Laser Center at Contour Dermatology is a comprehensive medical and cosmetic dermatology practice specializing in laser surgery. Among the center’s services include general dermatology and Mohs Surgery, laser resurfacing/rejuvenation, laser hair removal, laser treatments for cellulite reduction, IPL FotoFacialTM treatments, Botox, chemical peels, facial fillers, blepharoplasty, facial and leg vein treatments and tumescent liposuction. Complimentary cosmetic consultations are offered.
The Laser Center at Contour Dermatology has locations in Palm Springs at 555 E. Tachevah Drive, Suite 2E106 and in Rancho Mirage at 35280 Bob Hope Drive, Suite 104. For more information, call (760) 416-6971 or visit www.contourderm.com.
