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HEALTH
Skin Cancer Screening
COMMUNITY EVENT
By Pavela Bambekova and Kavina Patel
On August 10th, the Cancer Therapy and Research Center cause of cancer in people between the ages of 15 and 29.1-2
(CTRC) held its annual skin cancer screening event. The skin cancer Trying to prevent skin cancer can be difficult, especially for peo-
screening is organized by the dermatology department from UT
Health San Antonio. Every year, about 150 San Antonio residents ple who might not know about the danger chronic sun exposure
can sign up to see a community dermatologist and have their skin poses to health or who might not have the means to purchase
checked free of charge. proper sunscreens of 30 SPF or higher, schedule dermatologist ap-
pointments, or obtain healthcare. Free skin cancer screenings like
Skin cancer is a very common finding in San Antonio, given the one held at the CTRC make it possible for people of all back-
the vast sun exposure people in the Southern part of the United grounds, socioeconomic levels, and skin types to have an opportu-
States receive. The most common forms of skin cancer detected nity to be evaluated for any abnormal skin changes.
in this region are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma,
and melanoma. Skin cancer does not spare any ethnicity and skin “My father had multiple skin cancer lesions, and I hope to help
color, though it is more common in people with lighter tones. others in his position,” said Kathryn Hinchee-Rodriguez, a third
People should be alerted to see a dermatologist if they notice a year medical student who volunteered at the event. Kathryn was
lesion that is not healing and suddenly growing, crusting, bleed- one of twelve medical students who dedicated time outside of ac-
ing, and recurring.1 ademic coursework to get more exposure to dermatology and con-
tribute to community service. “As medical students, we chauffeured
According to Dr. Sandra Osswald, Dermatology Division Chief, the patients to and from their respective exam rooms,” said
the best way to try to prevent skin cancer is by “using sunscreen, Kathryn. “We acted as ambassadors for the physicians we were as-
sun protection, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure.” Dr. Osswald sisting.” This was Kathryn’s second time volunteering at the event.
also added that people should avoid tanning. Research from the For many of the other students, however, this skin cancer screening
American Academy of Dermatology shows that tanning beds in- was their first. “I found out about this event through the Derma-
crease the risk of melanoma by 59%, and melanoma is the leading tology Interest Group,” said Ruby Gibson, a second year medical
24 San Antonio Medicine • November 2017
