Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers - and one of the most treatable, if it's detected early enough. Knowing the possible risk factors, such as fair skin, excessive sun exposure, or atypical moles, might help in recognizing the signs of the disease, and getting a professional screening is also always a good idea.
Each year, Stanford dermatologists offer a free screening for skin cancer; this year's event is happening Saturday, June 13 from 8:00-11:30 AM at the Stanford General Dermatology Clinic in Redwood City. If you're a local reader, plan to stop by.
Alex Giacomini is an English literature major at UC Berkeley and a writing and social media intern in the medical school's Office of Communication and Public Affairs.
Previously: The importance of sunscreen in preventing skin cancer, Skin cancer images help people check skin more often and effectively, and Study shows link between indoor tanning and common skin cancer
