With a determined resolve to reduce skin cancer statistics, Melanoma Canada has propelled a series of mobile skin cancer screening clinics across Ontario throughout the summer. Marching forward with its five-year plan, the initiative sets an ambitious goal of screening over 25,000 Canadians annually for skin cancer and melanoma.
‘Mole Mobile’, a free skin cancer screening clinic, is manned by proficient volunteer dermatologists. On a cross-country mission, it provides an accessible, local healthcare solution while combatting long wait times often experienced in this sector.
Since the beginning of summer, the ‘Mole Mobile’ has extended its reach to 37 different cities in Ontario, providing screenings to thousands. Dr. Lyne Giroux, an area dermatologist, lead a pop-up clinic in Sudbury at the Northern Nissan location this past Friday.
“Typically, we screen patients, inspect their skin for potential issues and, if lesions are identified, we guide them towards necessary follow-up care and provide important preventative education,” Dr. Giroux explained. She stressed on the importance of reinforcing safe habits against the sun, as despite the advancements in awareness over the past decade, there is still much ground to be covered.
From the bustling scene at the recent clinic in North Bay, it’s evident that the campaign is resonating with the people. Dr. Giroux shared that upon her arrival, she was met with over 50 individuals in queue, and managed to reach about 70 within six hours.
Sudbury resident, Darlene Everard, who sought peace of mind at the Sudbury clinic, confessed, “I had something on my chest a few years ago and it was alarming, so I want to be certain I don’t have any more.” Everard felt strongly about the relevancy and necessity of these clinics in the light of the increasingly harsh sun and rising skin cancer incidence.
“Melanoma happens to be the skin cancer that’s the most lethal and the risk has skyrocketed in the last 20 years,” Dr. Giroux elucidated. Stressing on early detection, she revealed sensible fear about the growing risk of mortality from this skin cancer.
As November draws near, the ‘Mole Mobile’ clinic plans to wrap up its Ontario tour on the seventh and is setting sight on British Columbia and Quebec for next year. Attendees can expect a clinic in Kitchener on November 4. While RSVPs are accepted, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring equitable healthcare for all.
