Services and Programs

Pediatric Dermatology

Annual Skin Cancer Detection Clinic

Each spring, Strong Memorial Hospital hosts the Skin Cancer Detection Clinic. This free clinic is sponsored by the American Academy of Dermatology, Rochester Dermatologic Society, and the Department of Dermatology at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Local dermatologists and nurses donate their time to conduct skin screenings to detect skin cancers, pre-cancerous conditions, and related problems. Each screening takes about five minutes to conduct and a written report of findings is given to each participant. Information on skin cancer and skin cancer prevention is also available.

Last year, over 75,000 people were screened nationally, including 131 at Strong. More than 4,700 basal cell carcinomas, 1,000 squamous cell carcinomas and 892 melanomas were detected nationally at annual skin cancer screenings. Locally, 10 basal cell and two squamous cell carcinomas were detected. A list of dermatologists in the community is provided to those diagnosed with skin cancer.

Most skin cancer is curable if found in its early stages. Early diagnosis and education are the prime reasons for the cancer detection clinic. Excessive exposure to the sun is the leading cause of skin cancer, and those with lighter complexions are at a higher risk.

For more information about the free detection clinic, contact Fran Parrish at (585) 275-1976.