The General Surgery team at Gifford Health Care will provide free skin cancer screenings by appointment during a series of four sessions throughout the fall. Open to all Gifford and non-Gifford patients, the private screenings will take place at the following central Vermont locations:
- Oct. 25, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Gifford Specialty Care in Randolph
- Nov. 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Gifford Health Center at Berlin-Specialty Care
- Nov. 19, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Sharon Health Center
- Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Chelsea Health Center
Early skin cancer warning signs can appear on parts of the body that might be difficult to inspect during a self-exam. Gifford’s head-to-toe screenings will be conducted by surgeons Rafael Montecino, MD, and Victoria Edwards, DO, who will identify any areas that need closer examination or monitoring and suggest follow-up treatment if needed.
“We are pleased to offer free skin screenings to members of our community, as early detection is critical to successfully treating skin cancers,” said Montecino. “Screenings are recommended for adults at increased risk, such as older individuals, those with fair skin, people who have a history of sunburns, those who are exposed to UV rays, and individuals who have a family or personal history of skin cancer.”
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States and includes basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, with melanoma being the most dangerous due to its likelihood of spreading if not diagnosed early. Incidence rates continue to rise nationally and in Vermont, and Vermonters, according to the Department of Health, “have significantly higher rates of melanoma (29 per 100,000) compared to the U.S. rates (19.9 per 100,000).”
Gifford general surgeons perform a wide variety of services in addition to the diagnosis and treatment of all forms of cancer. For more information about their upcoming skin cancer screenings and to schedule an appointment, call 802-728-2430. For more information about General Surgery, visit giffordhealthcare.org/service/general-surgery.
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