Skin Cancer Screening At North Avenue Beach

(CBS) CHICAGO It was more than just a day at the beach for some North Avenue beachgoers July 15. From noon to 5 p.m., the Chicago Dermatological Society (CDS) sponsored a free skin cancer screening day with the help of area dermatologists.

Participants filled out information forms at the check-in tent. And volunteer doctors gave five minute screenings, with referrals for more in-depth check ups if needed.

“There are no official diagnoses given out,” said Dr. Omeed Memar.

"We aim to screen over 800 people in one day," said CDS's Dr. Marjorie Rosenbaum.

Along with the area organization, the National Skin Cancer Screening Tour MDv (Mobile Diagnostic vehicle) was on site with two private screening rooms. Chicago is the 11th stop on the tour, which has already screened almost 3,000 patients.

"So far, 71percent of patients screened have been diagnosed with some form of skin cancer," said Gene Goldberg, senior vice president of Bradley Pharmaceuticals, Inc., which sponsors the vehicle tour.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 1.3 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the U.S. each year -- easily outnumbering all other cancers combined. However, according to the CDS, skin cancer is the most easily cured type of cancer.

“It’s [skin cancer] a no-brainer. If caught and treated early, it’s easily cured. But if left alone, it is often fatal,” said Goldberg. “Yet it’s turned into almost a national epidemic, because people don’t seek treatment.”

Memar recommends seeing a dermatologist once a year. However, if you have a family history of skin cancer, numerous moles, or have had a past incidence of melanoma, Memar suggests a visit every six months.

“Melanoma, the most serious form of cancer, is on the rise,” said Memar. “But if you catch it in its earliest phase, it is very treatable. That’s why seeing your dermatologist regularly is so important.”

Rosenbaum stressed the importance of monthly skin self-exams in catching skin cancer early.

“What to look for: melanoma, atypical moles, pre-cancer, basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma,” said Memar.

“If you see a new mole or a changing mole, get in [to see your dermatologist],” Rosenbaum added.

Memar also explained a simple technique for detecting suspicious moles.

"The A, B, C, D’s of moles are: they should not be assymetric, they should not have choppy, fuzzy borders, they should be one uniform color—and should not be too dark, and they should be no bigger than a pencil eraser in diameter."

Limiting sun exposure is the only known way to lower your risk for skin cancer.

“When you’re at the beach, use beach umbrellas. And when possible, wear rash guard shirts in the water. Seek shade as often as possible,” added Rosenbaum. “Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes prior to sun exposure, and use a shot glassful to cover your body. Re-apply every two hours. Using an SPF in the 30s or 40s will give you extra protection."

At least one participant appreciated the importance of early detection.

“It’s very helpful,” said Jeff Sahagian of Elmhurst, who came in for a screening. “Any time you can educate people about this is important. I’m supposed to be playing volleyball right now, but I knew this was more important.”

The event also featured sunscreen samples and UV photos that showed the disastrous effects of ultraviolet light on skin.