Free skin cancer screenings come to NE Phila. residents

It's one of the most common forms of cancer, but it is also one of the most preventable. On Tuesday dozens of people were screened for skin cancer, and it didn't cost them a dime.

"Said I better go get checked out."

So Bertha Barbour boarded the 38 foot RV parked on the 9900 block of Bustleton Avenue as The Skin Cancer Foundation's Road to Healthy Skin Tour, presented by Rite Aid, rolled into Northeast Philadelphia. And people signed up, thrilled the screenings came to them...at no cost.

Dr. Jeffrey Pollock volunteered his time and services for the foundation. He explains skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year.

In addition to going to a doctor, he urges monthly self-skin checks.

Dr. Pollock says, "Things that are different are important. Not everything that is different is a problem, but there are things that you should bring to a dermatologist's attention."

Pollock also urges to minimize sun, protect your eyes, and don't forget daily sunblock.

Since the tour began in 2008, more than 7,000 suspected pre-cancers and cancers have been detected, including more than 300 suspected melanomas.