Wright State Physicians (WSP) Dermatology in collaboration with the Boonshoft School of Medicine (BSOM) Department of Dermatology held a free skin cancer screening this fall for firefighters with the Fairborn Fire Department. Nearly 20 firefighters participated in the skin screening held at the Dermatology Office in Fairborn at WSP’s main health center on the Wright State University campus.
“The idea for the skin screening originated with the American Academy of Dermatology’s (AAD) call for dermatologists to offer them to firefighters, as their occupation places them at higher risk for skin cancer”, said Julian Treviño, MD, dermatologist with WSP and BSOM chair of dermatology.
Studies have found a higher rate of melanoma in firefighters (compared to non-firefighters), particularly between the ages of 30 and 49. According to the AAD website, exposure to chemicals and carcinogens from soot, in conjunction with increased skin absorption levels during fires, are several factors which likely result in the increased cancer risk for firefighters. The above occupational exposures emphasize the importance of skin cancer screenings and annual skin exams for firefighters.
Toni Ennis, BSOM dermatology program office supervisor, coordinated the skin screening event, assisted by Dr. Treviño, Sharon Hicks, WSP dermatology clinic practice manager, and Manny Neikov, firefighter and paramedic, and chair of the Fairborn Fire Department’s Health and Wellness committee.
Dermatology residents and BSOM students also participated in the event. Fourth-year BSOM student Dāsha Giger assisted with registrations, and residents with BSOM’s dermatology residency program, Sean Igelman, MD, Jaree Naqvi, MD, Surav Sakya, MD, Alexandra Bohmer, MD, and Kristin Petit, MD, along with Dr. Treviño, performed the skin exams, provided education, and answered questions regarding skin cancer prevention and detection.
All firefighter participants left the exam with samples of sunscreen and skin care products, and documentation about skin cancer detection and prevention.
WSP and BSOM plan on holding more free skin cancer screenings for firefighters and the general public throughout the year. The BSOM dermatology department has been providing free skin cancer screenings for the community for over 20 years in Montgomery, Greene, Warren, and Miami Counites.
The AAD and WSP dermatology recommend everyone protect themselves from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. In addition, people should perform regular skin self-exams to detect skin cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Those who notice new or suspicious spots on their skin, as well as anything changing, itching or bleeding, should see a board-certified dermatologist.
WSP dermatology is accepting new patients. Call 937.245.7200 to schedule an appointment. No referral required.
