Sanford dermatologist Cooper Wriston, M.D., to hold skin cancer screening

BEMIDJI, Minn. – Cooper Wriston, M.D., of Sanford Bemidji Dermatology will be holding a free skin cancer screening on Thursday, Mar. 18, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Sanford Bemidji 1611 Anne St. Clinic-1611 Anne St. NW, Bemidji.

"Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and it is estimated that one person dies from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, every hour," explained Dr. Wriston. "Yet, not only is skin cancer preventable, it's highly treatable when detected early."

The free SPOTme® skin cancer screening will be completed by a certified dermatologist and participants will have the opportunity to schedule any necessary follow-up appointments. The screening will only cover areas traditionally sun-exposed during the winter months, including head, face, ears, neck and arms.

"Unlike other cancers, skin cancer can be seen on the surface of your skin, making it critical to regularly check your skin for changing or suspicious spots," shared Dr. Wriston. "A skin cancer screening from a dermatologist is a visual exam that is painless, only takes a few minutes, and could save your life."

Appointments are required. For more information and to schedule your screening, call Sanford Bemidji Dermatology at (218) 333-5310.

For more information about how to prevent and detect skin cancer, including instructions on how to perform a skin self-exam, connect with your primary care provider.

About SPOTme®

The SPOTme® skin cancer screening program, supported by a grant from Bristol-Myers Squibb, is part of the Academy's larger SPOT Skin Cancer™ initiative, a campaign to create a world without skin cancer through public awareness, community outreach programs and services, and advocacy that promote the prevention, detection and care of skin cancer. Since 1985, Academy dermatologists have conducted more than 2.4 million free skin cancer screenings and have detected nearly 248,000 suspicious lesions, including more than 27,500 suspected melanomas. To learn more about the SPOTme® campaign and to find free skin cancer screenings near you, visit SPOTme.org.

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 19,000 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 AAD at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or aad.org. Follow the AAD on Facebook (American Academy of Dermatology), Twitter (@AADskin) or YouTube (AcademyofDermatology).