RIDOH, Brown Dermatology offering free skin cancer screenings at Rhode Island Beaches

Cate Hanewich,

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Health said it is offering free skin cancer screenings with Brown Dermatology at Rhode Island beaches on four different dates this summer.

RIDOH said dermatologists and dermatology residents will provide the screenings to the first 100 people who arrive.

RIDOH is offering the screenings at the following beaches and dates:

  • Saturday, July 12, 1 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Scarborough Beach North, Narragansett
  • Friday, July 18, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.: Easton’s Beach, Newport
  • Saturday, August 2, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Scarborough Beach North, Narragansett
  • Friday, August 15, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.: Lincoln Woods State Park, Lincoln

Anyone interested in getting screened is asked to wear bathing suits or clothing that can be easily removed.

Additionally, RIDOH is offering the following tips to prevent skin cancer:

  • Apply sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor of 30 or more with both UVA and UVB protection
    • Put sunscreen on all areas of skin exposed to sun, including ears, neck, and nose
    • Reapply every two hours
  • When swimming or exercising, apply water-resistant sunscreen
  • Stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when sun rays are the strongest
  • Wear protective clothing
  • Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect the face, head, ears, and neck
  • Wear sunglasses with UV protection
  • Use caution near water because they reflect the sun’s rays
  • Avoid indoor tanning

“Along with getting in the shade and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more, getting a skin check is the most important thing you can do to protect against skin cancer,” Director of Health Jerry Larkin, MD said. “Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones and complexions, which is why all Rhode Islanders should take advantage of these free, convenient skin cancer checks. Cancer screenings have the power to save lives.” 

For more information on the skin check locations, visit here.

Categories: News, Rhode Island

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