Free skin cancer screening

How thorough are the free skin cancer screenings done at the camps? Do they check everything including genitals? Or they only do some parts and refer you to a clinic?

What camps are these? I have a family history of skin cancer so probably not a bad idea to start getting checked

How thorough are the free skin cancer screenings done at the camps? Do they check everything including genitals? Or they only do some parts and refer you to a clinic?

@Grizzly_Paladin You can find them on the American Academy of Dermatology Association's website https://www.aad.org/public/public-health/skin-cancer-screenings

@Grizzly_Paladin You can find them on the American Academy of Dermatology Association's website https://www.aad.org/public/public-health/skin-cancer-screenings

Thanks

LOL the closest one to me is three hours away.

From the look of it the thoroughness depends on whether the location has private screening areas or not. If it's a private room you can request a full body exam but if it's just open screening stations they only check what isn't covered by clothes. It does say they are quick checks either way (~10 minutes total) so it doesn't replace a dermatologist visit.

I agree with above links.. Many skin cancer screenings are fast/limited screening. If they have a privacy, then full body exams are offered.

Skin cancers are most common in sun exposed areas. Even limited examination of Head/face/ears/neck/chest/arms and legs is still worth it.

(Many primary care clinics do not emphasize the importance of basic skin examination during the annual physical)

(Many primary care clinics do not emphasize the importance of basic skin examination during the annual physical)

Agreed, none of my PCPs even mentioned it until now. Are PCPs supposed to do skin cancer screening?

Generally speaking, you get what you pay for. IMO most (not all) free screenings would be rather superficial.

My PCP has it on her checklist to ensure I see a dermatologist once a year.