UToledo Health to Host Free Dermatology Screening Event for Active-Duty Military and Veterans

UToledo Health to Host Free Dermatology Screening Event for Active-Duty Military and Veterans

The Division of Dermatology at UToledo Health will host a free skin cancer screening event for active-duty military members and veterans on Monday, May 4, from 8:30 to 11 a.m.

Participants can register for their 15-minute appointment by calling 419.383.6200.

The screenings will take place at the Dermatology Clinic in the Ruppert Health Center in Suite F located on Health Science Campus.

Each individual screened will be given a screening sheet that can be taken to a dermatologist of their choice for any follow-up appointments.

According to the Federal Melanoma Research Program, service members are 60% more likely to develop melanoma compared to the general population, with the greatest incident rates in the Air Force, Navy and Marines. Additionally, veterans face nearly an 18% higher chance of being diagnosed with Stage 3 melanoma and a 13% higher chance of Stage 4 compared to civilians.

"Skin cancer is one of the most common, and most preventable forms of cancer," said Dr. Lorie Gottwald, chief of dermatology at UToledo Health. "And many skin cancers can be treated successfully when found early, which is why screenings and self-awareness are so important."

Melanoma is already one of the five most common cancers among veterans and is projected to become the second most common by 2040, according to the Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA).

Veteran and military status will be confirmed while scheduling the appointment.