Free skin cancer checks
Skin Cancer Check Program
The free skin cancer check program is the AAD's longest-standing public health program. Since its inception in 1985, dermatologists have conducted more than 2.9 million free checks and detected more than 293,000 suspicious lesions, including more than 33,700 suspected melanomas. Millions of people have been educated about the importance of sun protection and early cancer detection through the skin cancer check program. As a result, countless lives have been saved by identifying melanomas in their earliest, most treatable stage.
When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable. Find a free skin cancer check near you.
Learn what happens and what to expect during a skin cancer check.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. You can find it early when it’s highly treatable by learning what to look for.
Use the AAD's body mole map to perform a self-exam, learn what to look for, and record your spots so you can refer back during your next visit with your dermatologist.
Have you just had a skin cancer check and been told that you have a spot on your skin that could be skin cancer? If you do not have health insurance, learn how you can still get medical care.
To raise awareness and encourage people to protect their skin, patients diagnosed with skin cancer tell their stories. Take a minute to get inspired. If you or a family member has been affected by skin cancer, please share your story.
Men over 50 have a higher risk of developing melanoma
The AAD encourages everyone to take steps to prevent skin cancer and detect it early, when it’s most treatable. This is especially important for men over 50 as they have an increased risk of developing melanoma compared to the general population.
If you notice any suspicious spots on your skin or your partner’s skin, or anything that is changing, itching or bleeding, see a board-certified dermatologist.
Learn more at, Melanoma strikes men harder.