Moffitt Cancer Center Brings Free Skin Screenings to Tampa Residents Through Mobile Program

Moffitt Cancer Center provides free skin cancer screenings through its Mole Patrol program at community events across Tampa. No appointment needed. No insurance required. Each screening takes 5 to 10 minutes.

The program has operated for three decades throughout Florida. When doctors find something suspicious during checks, they send patients to dermatologists.

One in five Americans will get skin cancer by age 70. That's according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The group reports that about 9,500 people in the United States receive a diagnosis each day.

Moffitt Cancer Center set up screening tents at George M. Steinbrenner Field during a spring training game between the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies. Fans got quick skin checks while watching the baseball matchup.

"Enjoy the sun, enjoy the beach, but get protection," said Dr. Lilia Correa with Moffitt Cancer Center, according to Fox 13 News.

Correa pushes teens and young adults who spend time outdoors to start getting skin checks. Dermatologists suggest wearing sunscreen, finding shade during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and scheduling examinations.

Event coordinator Beth Braddock stressed how easy it is to access the program. "You don't need an appointment or insurance, and you can get a free skin check," said Braddock.

Fans Vic and Donna Riddle visited the screening tents during the game. It gave them peace of mind.

"You can't be too careful these days," said Vic. "You don't know what may be going on with your body, and it's a good idea to check things out."

Health experts say spring break season delivers plenty of sunshine to the Tampa Bay area. That makes it the right time to watch your skin health. Whether people are heading to the beach or spending the day at a baseball game, doctors say protecting skin from the sun matters.

The Mobile Mole Patrol will make its next stop on April 12 at the Cassidy Otto 5K in Wesley Chapel. Organizers will offer free screenings to the public at the event.