Get a Free Skin Cancer screening

Becky Butts, educator

The Cancer Center at Ball Memorial Hospital

Q. With the weather turning warmer, my family it anxious to be outside, what do I need to do to protect against skin cancer?
A. Skin Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. Protecting you and your family against harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun is extremely important. There are a number of things you can do. First, apply a broad spectrum sunscreen. This means it will protect against both UVA and UVB rays (this information can be found on the bottle of sunscreen). Choose a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. Sunscreen should be applied liberally to all parts of the body exposed to the sun about 30 minutes prior to going outdoors. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied at least every two hours or after excessive sweating or swimming. Clothing can also be protective against the sun, for example- a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, and tightly woven clothes. Be aware of when the sun’s UV rays are strongest – 11am-4pm. Find shade when possible. You and your family should enjoy your time outdoors – Just be smart!

Q. How can I determine my risk for skin cancer?
Anyone is at risk for skin cancer regardless of skin color, however, individuals with fair skin, blonde or red hair, and blue or green eyes are at an increased risk. If you have ever had a sunburn so severe it blistered, you are also at an increased risk. The main cause of skin cancer is overexposure to the sun so individuals who spend a large amount of time outside are also at a higher risk. Exposing yourself to UV rays from tanning beds also increases your risk.

Q. Where can I go to get screened?
A. Individuals over the age of 18 should see a dermatologist annually for a skin cancer screening. You should also be examining your skin monthly for any new growths or changes in existing ones. Skin Cancer is highly curable when caught early. The Cancer Center at Ball Memorial Hospital along with the Dermatology Clinic of Muncie, Lifetime Skin Care Centers, and University Dermatology Clinic will offer a FREE skin cancer screening on Thursday, May 17th from 6pm-8pm at The Cancer Center. You can schedule an appointment for this free screening by calling (765)741-1073. Free screenings will be offered in Jay County on May 14, in Blackford County on May 29, and Henry County on July 2. To learn more about these screenings, please call (765)747-6090.

Q. What local resources are available if I want to learn more about skin cancer?
A. If you would like to schedule a free presentation about skin cancer or if you would like to learn more information, please contact Becky Butts, Coordinator of Community Education at The Cancer Center at Ball Memorial Hospital at (765)741-2938 or bbutts@chsmail.org.

Becky Butts is an educator in The Cancer Center at Ball Memorial Hospital, for more information on skin cancer call (765) 741-2938 or email Becky at bbutts@chsmail.org.

Back to CHS News