I’d like to state right away that I am not a New England Patriots fan, in fact I despise the team. I’m an Oakland Raiders fan so that tuck rule game still haunts me to this day. That’s neither here nor there though, and I’m sure a vast majority of people have no idea what I’m talking about. The point is now I have to give a big round of applause to the New England Patriots organization.
This Saturday August 10th, the New England Patriots are teaming up with the American Academy of Dermatology to help increase skin cancer awareness. AAD volunteers will be on hand when for the Patriots training camp, and will provide free skin cancer screenings to any one in attendance. They are doing this to try and increase awareness of the importance of skin cancer awareness and detection.
“The New England Patriots organization is pleased to provide free skin cancer screenings and encourage a lifelong habit of regular skin self-examinations,” said Patriots Executive Director of Community Affairs Andre Tippett. “Skin cancer affects people of all complexions. By taking a few easy precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and a hat, Patriots fans can safely root for their team at training camp and throughout the season.”
Skin cancer is a giant problem in our country today. One out of every 5 people in America will be affected by skin cancer. The crazy part is that at the same time it is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer. Early detection is especially important and that is what the skin cancer screenings will stress.
“Skin cancer is one of the easiest cancers to detect in its earliest stages because the signs are right there on the surface of the skin,” said Dr. Thomas Rohrer, MD, FAAD, member of the AAD’s sports committee. “Early detection of skin cancer offers the best chance for successful treatment. I encourage fans to follow the Patriots’ lead by conducting regular skin self-examinations, as well as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.”
Self exams are very important and should be integrated into all people’s health care plans. For a complete guide on how to conduct a self examination, please check here.
I think its great what the Patriots are doing because its hard to get people motivated to go somewhere just for a skin cancer screening. It shouldn’t be, but in reality it most certainly is. When you can hit them up at somewhere they already have an interest in being, their much more likely to take you up on it. Especially organizations such as sports teams that have such a loyal following. I’m sure there’s people that are thinking, “well, if its being sanctioned by my Patriots then it must be important.” I think that all teams should do things like this, a lot of them do, but it should be even more prevalent.
For anyone else that’s interested in finding a free screening in their own area, you can go to the AAD’s website.
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