News Summary
In honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Greenville residents are encouraged to partake in free skin checks and initiatives aimed at enhancing sun safety. Local dermatologists will offer screenings on May 21st at Parkside Family Medicine, while student-led efforts promote sunscreen dispensers in community parks. The community supports those impacted by skin cancer, including local coach Steve Scolamiero. Upcoming events, such as the grand opening of the Greenville Cancer Survivors Park, will further emphasize awareness and prevention efforts.
Greenville Community Mobilizes for Skin Cancer Awareness and Prevention
May is designated as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a timely reminder for residents in the Greenville area about the prevalence and dangers of skin cancer. Statistics reveal that approximately 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime, and daily, around 20 individuals lose their lives to melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer.
In response to these alarming statistics, local dermatologists will provide free Skin Cancer Checks on Wednesday, May 21st, from 4 to 6 PM. This screening takes place at Parkside Family Medicine, located at 525 Verdae Blvd. Residents wishing to schedule an appointment for the skin check can visit parksidefamilymedicine.com. It is important to note that space is limited and the screenings are available to adults only.
In addition to medical screenings, local efforts are underway to enhance sun safety in public spaces. A student at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville (SOMG), Yash Verma, is advocating for the installation of sunscreen dispensers in area parks. As part of his initiative, these dispensers will be placed in Unity Park and Cancer Survivors Park, serving as part of a pilot project aimed at increasing access to sun protection.
Local Developments in Skin Cancer Prevention
The SOMG campus has already taken proactive measures by installing multiple sunscreen dispensers after being recognized as a Skin Smart Campus by The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention. Two SPF 30 sunscreen dispensers were strategically placed on the first floor of the Health Sciences Education building, fostering a culture of skin cancer prevention among students and staff.
Skin cancer is not only prevalent among older populations; it is increasingly affecting young adults. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasizes the importance of using sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 to safeguard against harmful UV radiation. This initiative is critical because skin cancer is recognized as one of the most preventable cancers when proper protective measures are taken.
Inspirational Community Stories
The community is rallying around Coach Steve Scolamiero, a local high school athletics director, who is currently hospitalized for the third time due to returning melanoma. His situation has drawn considerable support from the community, highlighting the personal impact of skin cancer on local residents.
Additionally, personal stories of skin cancer treatment underscore the advancements in care. A patient in Spartanburg has successfully undergone Image-guided SRT radiation treatment for basal cell carcinoma, sharing his experience of a painless and scar-free journey through medical intervention. Furthermore, a flamingo at the Greenville Zoo received treatment for squamous cell carcinoma that involved laser therapy and surgical procedures to remove a tumor, demonstrating that skin cancer awareness extends beyond humans and affects wildlife as well.
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
The Greenville Cancer Survivors Park is set to hold its grand opening on June 1st and will feature community leaders as part of a fundraising event scheduled for June 2nd. To further emphasize the support for cancer survivors, a free Cancer Survivors Day Celebration will take place on June 3rd at the park, featuring a variety of activities and a recognition ceremony for survivors.
These initiatives reflect the community’s commitment to raising awareness about skin cancer and providing preventive measures for residents. The collaborative efforts between local health professionals, student advocacy, and community events all play a vital role in the ongoing campaign against skin cancer in Greenville.
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Additional Resources
- WYFF4: USC Medical Student Advocates for Sunscreen Dispensers in Greenville Parks
- Wikipedia: Skin Cancer
- Greenville Online: Community Supports Coach Steve Scolamiero Battling Cancer
- Google Search: Skin Cancer Prevention
- Fox Carolina: Innovative Skin Cancer Treatments in Upstate
- Google Scholar: Sunscreen Dispensers
- Greenville Online: Dick Vitale’s Battle with Cancer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Skin Cancer
