Free skin cancer screening clinic takes place in Vancouver this weekend

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      The Canadian Dermatology Association is hosting a free skin cancer screening clinic in Vancouver this Saturday (July 22).

      Taking place at the Vancouver Aquatic Centre (1050 Beach Avenue), the workshop will offer free screenings to attendees from a group of professional dermatologists. It will also offer residents resources and education related to early detection, how to prevent skin cancers, and how to conduct regular at-home self-examinations.

      “Clinics like this one are important because it allows us to educate people and potentially catch skin cancer early while it’s still highly treatable,” said Dr. Jason Rivers, one of Canada’s leading experts in melanoma, in a media release. “Members of the community have the opportunity to meet with a dermatologist or dermatology resident without a referral, and learn about skin cancer screening.”

      The clinic happens between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. No appointments are necessary.

      According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the world. The disease typically begins as an irregular mole, freckle, or pimple- or wart-like growth before spreading to other parts of the body and could potentially lead to death. It’s caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun and tanning beds.

      To prevent skin cancer, dermatologists recommend frequently performing at-home skin evaluations, avoiding the sun as much as possible between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. in the summer, and wearing wide-brim hats and UV-protective lenses as needed.

      “Broad-spectrum” and “water-resistant” sunscreens with a minimum 30 SPF should also be applied during summer days. Sunbeds should be avoided at all costs.

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