Bend Dermatology Clinic, Bend Memorial Clinic, and St. Charles Cancer Center are launching the free screening drive as part of their early detection and prevention campaign
With millions of skin cancers diagnosed in the United States each year, and Oregon having the fifth-highest rate of melanoma, a particular skin cancer caused by sun-exposure, per capita in the country, the event is timely and relevant. A dermatologist at Bend Dermatology Clinic, Joshua May MD, said:
“Getting just one bad sunburn before you're 18 doubles your chances of developing skin cancer.
“These cancer screenings increase access for Central Oregon residents. It allows for skin cancers to be treated in the early stages before they have progressed too far.”
The screenings, which are being freely made available to all Central Oregon residents whether they are insured or uninsured, will take place at Deschutes County Health Services.
Raising awareness over prevention is also a key part of the campaign, with the public poster printing for the event also urging locals to avoid too much sun exposure.
It is located at 2577 NE Courtney Drive, with screenings taking place from 8:30 am until noon on April 25. Advance appointments should be made via the event website.