Inova Health System Offers Skin Cancer Screenings

Inova Dermatologists Will Offer Free Screenings in Recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month

(April 27, 2010) – Inova Health System is offering skin cancer screenings during the month of May, in recognition of National Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, with more than 1 million people in the U.S. being diagnosed with the disease this year. Of those 1 million, nearly 70,000 will battle the most deadly form of skin cancer, melanoma.

Inova dermatologists will offer skin cancer screenings at Inova Alexandria, Inova Fairfax, Inova Fair Oaks and Inova Loudoun hospitals. Medical experts will not only screen patients but provide education and follow-up treatments, and teach patients about how to perform self-exams.

“As many gear up for more outdoor activities in the warmer months, Inova wants to educate the community at these screenings about skin cancer protection and detection,” said Kirsten Edmiston, MD, Inova Cancer Services. “Early detection can make a difference in the course of treatment and the chance of survival.”

To schedule a free skin cancer screening at one of the following locations, please call 703-750-8812. Patients will be seen by appointment only.

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
May 1
9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Inova Alexandria Hospital
May 8
10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Inova Fairfax Hospital
May 15
8:30 a.m.- 11:45 a.m.

Inova Loudoun Hospital
May 22
9 a.m.- noon

Inova Health System is a not-for-profit healthcare system based in Northern Virginia that consists of hospitals and other health services, including emergency- and urgent-care centers, home care, nursing homes, mental health and blood donor services, and wellness classes. Governed by a voluntary board of community members, Inova’s mission is to improve the health of the diverse community it serves through excellence in patient care, education and research. Inova provides a healthy environment for its patients, families, visitors, staff and physicians by prohibiting tobacco use on its campuses.