Beach towel? Check. Sunscreen? Check. Annual Cancer Screening? Check!

If you’re a fan of Florida’s beautiful Clearwater Beach, check off a potentially lifesaving checkup from your to-do list on July 26 when Moffitt Cancer Center returns for its annual community cancer screening event. 

Experts from Moffitt’s Cutaneous Oncology Department’s  Mole Patrol and the Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology Department will be on hand to screen for skin, head and neck cancers from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Screenings are free and there is no need for an appointment. 

Last summer, screeners examined 200 people and discovered 149 suspicious findings. When an area of concern was found, screeners would share information with patients about next steps and what they should ask their doctor. Those screened are not required to follow up with Moffitt. 

“It only takes a few minutes to get screened and it is noninvasive and painless,” said Vernon Sondak, MD, chair of the Cutaneous Oncology Department. “If there is a need for privacy, we are set up for that as well. We are here to help.” 

Catch Threats Early 

Head and neck cancer screening is also noninvasive, and the Pier 60 event gives the community an opportunity to address any concerns or catch potential threats early, according to Deepa Danan, MD, vice chair of Moffitt’s Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology Department. 

Deepa Danan, MD

“Our hope is to catch people who may not regularly go to the dermatologist or know that head and neck cancer is really an issue,” Danan said. 

There are no requirements to get screened other than filling out basic paperwork. 

Head and neck cancer screeners examine the mouth for any lesions or ulcers and feel the sides of the neck and face for any abnormalities. Doctors say more than 55,000 Americans are diagnosed with head, neck and oral cancers each year and that most of the cases are caused by tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption or ultraviolet light exposure. 

Sunshine State Dangers 

In Florida, skin cancer is increasingly common, and experts say that this year alone, more than 5.5 million people will be diagnosed with a form of skin cancer. Screeners examine suspicious moles, rashes or any other abnormalities, and the beach offers an opportunity to access more areas without being invasive. 

Vernon Sondak, MDPrevention is best, of course, and that includes sunscreen, UV protectant clothing and wide brimmed hats. However, early detection is also an important tool to ensure you stay healthy. 

Moffitt’s two screening teams have partnered for the past several years and have perfected their system to move those who want to be screened through the process relatively quickly, which is why the event continues to be a success. 

“Our screening team is remarkably efficient and collaborative,” Sondak said.