Mitchell Dermatology offers free skin cancer screening

By HOPE MITCHELL

Mitchell Dermatology

Did you know that skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer? Every year, more than five million people are diagnosed with skin cancer. One in five Americans will receive a skin cancer diagnosis in their lifetime.

To identify melanoma early, know your ABCDEF’s of Melanoma:

• Asymmetry: a mole, growth, or brown spot that is not symmetrical (irregular in shape) may be melanoma.
• Border: Most moles have smooth borders; melanomas typically have uneven, ragged borders.
• Color: Most moles are all one shade of brown; melanomas may be several different shades of brown, red or blue.
• Diameter: Most moles are smaller than the tip of a pencil eraser; melanomas tend to be larger.
• Evolving: Moles can change over time. A mole that is changing – becoming larger, chang- ing color, developing a bump, itching or bleeding – should be seen by a dermatologist immediately.
• Family History: Heredity plays a major role in melanoma. Each person with a first degree relative diagnosed with melanoma has a 50% greater chance of developing the cancer.

Don’t be a statistic. Get screened.

Mitchell Dermatology will hold its first Fall Free Skin Cancer Screening from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 10, at the Dorothy L. Kern Cancer Center,

2390 Enterprise Drive, Fremont. Screenings take only 10 minutes and can save lives. This event is for everyone and all ages are welcome. Call 419-872-H0PE (4673) for information.

Hope Mitchell, M.D., is part of Mitchell Dermatology with three locations at 815 Commerce Drive, Perrysburg; 2575 Hayes Ave., Suite 3, Fremont; 501 Van Buren St., Suite 103, Fostoria. For information, visit mitchellderm.com.