Skin Cancer Screenings

Almost all skin cancers are curable if detected early, and most skin cancers are preventable. The best way to prevent skin cancer is to monitor changes on your skin and to see your primary care physician or dermatologist every year for a professional skin exam. Sturdy Memorial Hospital's affiliated dermatologists provide skin exams to help detect skin cancer in its earliest stages. The Hospital also offers FREE skin cancer screenings throughout the year. Call the Cancer Information Line at 508-236-7015 for details on the next screening.

Sun Safety

Skin cancer prevention starts with adopting day-to-day habits that help protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. These habits include: avoiding sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day; applying 1 ounce of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside, and reapplying every two hours; covering skin with clothing; wearing a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses; keeping newborns out of direct sunlight and using sunscreens on babies over the age of six months; and avoiding tanning and UV tanning booths. Even if you do not burn, skin damage and skin cancer can develop from sun exposure over time.