While skin checks are potentially life-saving exams, there are many obstacles that prevent people from seeing a dermatologist; for example, they may not have a dermatologist nearby, they might not be able to take time away from work or other responsibilities, or they may not be able to afford the cost.
By the numbers
Through community outreach events, the dermatology team has provided 565 free skin screenings to date, and has detected more than 75 cancerous or pre-cancerous lesions:
- 20% of individuals who received a skin check were recommended for follow-up with a health care provider for a spot of concern.
- 38% of participants reported coming to the event because they had a spot they were concerned about.
- 26% reported they came to the event because they do not have a dermatologist and/or health insurance.
- The team provided free skin checks at more than 20 events in 10 counties across Oregon.
Recognizing these challenges, the dermatology team at Oregon Health & Science University decided to instead bring dermatologists directly to people who need their services. Dermatology experts have teamed up with the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute Mobile Outreach Van team to provide in-person, free screenings around the state. In addition to skin exams during these mobile visits, the dermatology experts share the importance of self-skin checks and information on virtual skin cancer spot checks to ensure people know what to do is they find a suspicious spot.
National Surveillance, epidemiology and end results program data, or SEER data, show that when melanoma is caught early, in stage 1 or 2, the five-year survival rate is extremely high — virtually 100%. The rate of survival declines the later a melanoma is caught to approximately 75% for stage 3 and only 35% for stage 4.
“May is Melanoma-Skin Cancer Awareness month, and we want to ensure everyone in Oregon checks their skin, and has access to a health care professional to give them advice,” says Elizabeth Stoos, associate director in the OHSU Department of Dermatology. “Whether you meet us at one of our events around the state or do a self-check at home, the message is simple: take action. Check your skin. And if you see a spot that stands out, talk to your provider or take advantage of telehealth options.”
Taking ‘Steps Against Melanoma’
Each year, OHSU Dermatology collaborates with the AIM at Melanoma Foundation to raise awareness about melanoma, while also raising money to support melanoma research. On May 4, the 11th annual Steps Against Melanoma walk took place in five cities around Oregon — Portland, Astoria, Bend, Corvallis and Grants Pass.
In collaboration with the Skin Cancer Foundation, OHSU dermatology clinicians and volunteers will provide free skin checks to anyone who comes to OHSU from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 20 or 21. The Skin Cancer Foundation bus will be parked in ‘The Lot at Zidell Yards' at 3200 S. Moody Ave., near the Portland Aerial Tram.
OHSU second-year medical student in dermatology Lori Sun has helped with skin cancer outreach events, including the AIM at Melanoma walks. She says attending community outreach events and helping with skin checks has been “very rewarding.”
“Most of the people we see have had skin concerns for years but haven’t been able to see a dermatologist,” Sun says. “Being able to help answer those questions they have had for a long time and seeing people leave with a better understanding of their skin is my favorite part.
“With earlier detection, melanoma is treatable and preventable,” she adds. “But people need to know what to look for so they can advocate for themselves or their loved ones.”
