CANSA and skin care foundation offers free skin screening in September
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) is encouraging everyone to be screened for skin cancer.
MANY people fail to prioritise screenings for skin cancer because they cannot afford a doctor’s visit or they are afraid of the repercussions if their problem can’t be solved by a simple wash or topical ointment.
However, if the inability to afford the consultation is what is keeping you from finding out if that mole on your arm is something to be worried about, CANSA and South African Skin Cancer Foundation (SAFCF) have you covered.
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These two organisations are partnering to offer free skin cancer screenings on 1 September when CANSA Care Centres around the country will offer free FotoFinder (examining moles and spots on the skin) screenings.
“It’s terrific to partner with SASCF to support this initiative for the fifth year by offering free FotoFinder screenings or clinical skin examinations nationally,” explained head of CANSA, Gerda Strauss.
“We encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to be screened as early detection is vital and improves treatment outcomes,” explained Strauss.
Dermatologist
One of the participating dermatologists, Dr Marc Roscher explained dermatologists nationally would be offering free skin cancer screening nationwide on 1 September 2020.
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Roscher explained that early diagnosis leading to definitive treatment by a dermatologist, is the shortest route to skin health.
”Skin cancer is one of the most pervasive cancers currently affecting patients worldwide and since it is visible, the skin can be assessed regularly for lesions that were not there previously, or do not belong there,” explained Roscher.
Albinism
Another dermatologist, Dr Nomphelo Gantsho, explained that people with fairer skin stood a greater risk of developing skin cancer.
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“The lack of melanin and exposure to intense ultraviolet radiation increases the risk of developing skin cancer. This means the lack of melanin in people living with Albinism, increases their risk of developing skin cancer a thousand times over as compared to the general African population,” she said.
The free screening is appointment-based.
Appointments can be made via saskincancerfoundation@gmail.com or by emailing info@cansa.org.za
Appointments will be awarded on a first-come first-served basis.
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