(ROCKFORD, Illinois | April 21, 2023) –The Patricia D. Pepe Center for Cancer Care at OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 East State St., is offering a free skin cancer screening from 8 to Noon on Saturday, May 6, 2023.

Dermatologists from the MD SkinCenter in Rockford will check moles or lesions to determine if further medical evaluation and possible intervention are recommended. The screening is free but appointments are required by calling (815) 227-2618. If your call is not answered, please leave a message and we will return your call as soon as possible.

Although skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, it can often be cured if detected early. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma are common forms of skin cancer related to long-term exposure to sunlight.

Early warning signs of skin cancer include enlarging and darkening moles; changes in the color of an existing mole, particularly if red, white and blue pigmentation spreads to surrounding skin; changes in the consistency or shape of a pigmented spot; a red area with a scaly, crusted surface that doesn’t heal; small, shiny, firm raised growths on the skin that may ulcerate or form scabs in the center; or signs of inflammation on skin that surrounds an existing mole.

Those who are exhibiting symptoms are encouraged to attend the free screening and evaluation.

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