Foxborough, Mass. (Aug. 6, 2009) -- The New England Patriots and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) will team up to tackle skin cancer on Aug. 10. AAD dermatologists will volunteer their services to help the Patriots increase awareness of the importance of skin cancer detection and prevention by providing free skin cancer screenings at Patriots Training Camp.
Screenings will be available to Patriots fans attending Training Camp and Patriots Experience on Aug. 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the W3 lobby of Gillette Stadium, adjacent to Patriots Experience and the camp parking lots.
Skin cancer will affect one in five Americans and more than 1 million new cases are diagnosed each year. Of these cases, approximately 68,720 are melanoma, a cancer that claims 8,650 lives annually. Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, including melanoma.
"The New England Patriots organization is pleased to provide free skin cancer screenings and encourage a lifelong habit of regular skin self-examinations," said Patriots Executive Director of Community Affairs Andre Tippett. "Skin cancer affects people of all complexions. By taking a few easy precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and a hat, Patriots fans can safely root for their team at training camp and throughout the season."
Skin self-examinations consist of regularly looking over the entire body, including the back, scalp, soles, between the toes and on the palms. If there are any changes in the size, color, shape or texture of a mole, the development of a new mole or any other unusual changes on the skin, an appointment with a dermatologist is necessary.
"Skin cancer is one of the easiest cancers to detect in its earliest stages because the signs are right there on the surface of the skin," said Dr. Thomas Rohrer, MD, FAAD, member of the AAD's sports committee. "Early detection of skin cancer offers the best chance for successful treatment. I encourage fans to follow the Patriots' lead by conducting regular skin self-examinations, as well as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sun hours."
Anyone can be screened for skin cancer by visiting the AAD's Web site at www.aad.org to find a free screening in their area.
ABOUT THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
