Mid-Atlantic Skin Surgery Institute is pleased to announce that it is now providing free skin cancer screenings to any organ transplant recipient.
This new program was launched in response to recent studies identifying an increased risk of skin cancer among organ recipients. The immunosuppressive medications given to recipients that allow transplanted organs to function and survive also increase the risk of skin cancer. It is estimated that solid organ transplant recipients are up to 65 times more likely to develop skin cancer than the general public.
“While there is growing evidence of the increased risk of skin cancer among transplant recipients, many recipients remain unaware. My goal is to help increase awareness of their risks of contracting this disease, as well as the importance of routine professional skin checks,” says George Verghese, MD, medical director of Mid-Atlantic Skin.
Most skin cancers are easily cured if recognized and treated early. The American Cancer Society recommends monthly self exams, and an annual professional exam.
The free screenings for organ recipients are available daily by appointment during normal business hours. In addition, free screenings for the general public will continue to be available by appointment the first Wednesday of each month.
Appointments for screenings can be made by calling Mid-Atlantic Skin at (301) 396-3401. Mid-Atlantic Skin is located at 173 St. Patrick’s Drive, Suite 201, in Waldorf, Maryland. Visit www.midatlanticskin.com for additional information.