BRUNSWICK

Each year, Mid Coast Hospital holds a community skin cancer screening aimed at promoting early detection and prevention of skin cancer. Of the 129 individuals screened this year in May, 87 had positive findings and were educated on continued monitoring. The screening identified 30 individuals who were referred for follow up care and potentially life-threatening cancers in 8 percent of participants.

“Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer with more than 1 million new cases reported every year,” said Brunswick-based dermatologist Dr. Helge Riemann. “The good news is that skin cancer is preventable and treatable through good sun-safety habits and early detection.”

The screening was a collaboration of The American Academy of Dermatology, the American Cancer Society, Mid Coast Hospital’s Center for Community Heath & Wellness, and Mid Coast-affiliated dermatology experts. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one in five Americans will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer in their lifetime, making it the most common cancer in the United States.

“You can take action to prevent skin cancer and reduce the risk of UV damage by limiting your time in the sun, using sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), covering exposed skin, and checking your skin regularly for changes,” Riemann said.