Sun Safety Takes the Field at Spring Training
The Spring Swing Sun Safety Tour continues its mission to protect baseball fans across Florida by offering free skin cancer screenings at Major League Baseball Spring Training venues. Over the program’s 18-year history, more than 5,400 fans have received screenings from trained skin cancer specialists.
Those screenings have made a real impact. Experts have identified 5,506 suspected cancerous lesions, including 32 potential melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Early detection is critical, and Spring Swing® brings that opportunity directly to fans spending long hours under Florida’s intense spring sunshine.
Mole Patrol Marks 30 Years of Community Outreach
The tour is powered by Moffitt Cancer Center’s well‑known Mole Patrol®, a mobile team dedicated to spotting early signs of skin cancer and educating the public about sun safety. Now in its 30th year, Mole Patrol made three Central Florida stops this season: Sarasota, Fort Myers and Tampa.
Their presence at spring training events helps reach people who may not otherwise schedule a skin check, especially visitors from colder climates who underestimate early‑season UV exposure.
Why Early Skin Checks Matter
Skin cancer can develop at any age, which is why dermatologists encourage people to start paying attention early.
Lilia Correa, MD, a board‑certified dermatologist, emphasizes self-skin checks.
Melanoma can spread quickly. But when caught early, treatment is far more effective. Programs like Spring Swing and Mole Patrol help identify suspicious lesions before they become life‑threatening.
Spring training brings sunshine, excitement and long days outdoors and Spring Swing ensures that sun safety is part of the experience. By combining America’s favorite pastime with lifesaving health screenings, the program continues to be a major victory for community wellness.
