Morrison Community Hospital Offers Free Skin Cancer Screenings

Summer is a great time to get your annual screening for skin cancer. Skin cancer is currently the most common form of cancer in the U.S.; over 5 million basal and squamous cell skin cancers are diagnosed each year. It is estimated that over 7,000 people die annually from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Melanoma rates have doubled in the past 30 years, and are expected to increase. An estimated 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their lives, and sadly, the incidence rates are increasing for people under age 40. Melanoma can affect anyone, regardless of skin color.

The silver lining with this scary disease is that early detection saves lives. If detected early, many types of skin cancer can be treated successfully. If melanoma is detected and treated before spreading to the lymph nodes, the five-year survival rate is 99%.

Morrison Community Hospital is continuing its annual Skin Cancer Awareness promotion this summer by offering two free skin cancer screening events. The first screening is Tuesday, August 11th, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The second is Tuesday, August 25th from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Both screenings are complimentary. Dr. George Georgiev, Dermatologist for Morrison Community Hospital, has caught early signs of skin cancer for a number of patients during previous screening events.

In addition to detecting and treating skin cancer, Dr. Georgiev screens for AK, or Actinic Keratosis. This condition is characterized by crusty, swollen, or scaly spots on the skin that can develop into skin cancer. He also treats acne, rosacea, poison ivy, and skin rashes, and offers mole removal.

While previous complimentary skin cancer screenings were available to walk-in patients, this year all screenings must be by appointment to ensure social distancing and to meet other safety protocols. For more information, please contact:

Dr. George Georgiev, MD

Morrison Community Hospital

303 North Jackson Street

Morrison, IL 61270

815-772-5511

www.morrisonhospital.com