Reduce Your Risk of Melanoma & Get Screened for Free

melanoma-risks-and-free-screening
This page was originally published May 1, 2018 and updated January 31, 2024.

Melanoma is a form of skin cancer, and according to the American Cancer Society there will be 99,780 people in the USA diagnosed this year alone.

Malignant melanoma’s primary cause is ultraviolet light. Patients with low pigment skin, moles, a family history of melanoma, and those with poor immune system function are at greater risk of developing melanoma.

Reducing the Risk

Want to reduce your risk? Experts say limit your exposure to UV light.

As Charles Bollmann, M.D., Bare Skin Owner/CEO, FACOG, FAACS advises, “Sunburn damages the skin, and causes changes, both visibly and in the dermis. It affects DNA and can cause mutations, which frequently cause cancer. Use sunscreen.”

In addition to avoiding UV light, other smart lifestyle choices can help you reduce your risk of this disease. According to recent research, when you quit smoking, practice good food choices, and get plenty of regular exercise, you can reduce the risk of this and other cancers. If you need help to quit smoking, we have free support programs listed that can double your chances of success. For more healthy living tips, please visit our community blog; it’s updated daily with researched-backed tips and tools to help you live your best life. The American Cancer Society also has some helpful ideas.

Free Screening Programs

For free skin cancer screening programs, take a look at these no-cost resources:

Free Help for All Cancer Patients in the USA

If you’ve been diagnosed with any type of cancer and are having trouble meeting expenses, free help is available to you. Please see our links to free financial help for cancer patients. Our national directory is updated daily and includes non-profits and government agencies that have completely free programs to assist you with out of pocket costs, prescription drugs, household expenses and more.

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4 Comments

  1. I didn’t know you could get screened for free! I will be looking into this, especially because I spend a lot of time outdoors in the summer!

    • We’re thrilled these screening programs have helped you, Grace! Thanks for your visit!

  2. This is such a great program because with our never ending expenses it’s so hard to afford such tests. Thank you for the information.

    • You are welcome, Joanna. Thank you for your visit and please help us spread the word about these wonderful programs.

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