ASDS skin cancer screening program receives award

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery announced that its skin cancer screening program has received a national 2015 Power of A award.

The award, given by the American Society of Association Executives, recognized the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) and its Choose Skin Health program. Feted organizations, such as ASDS, “distinguish themselves with innovative, effective and broad-reaching programs and activities that positively impact America and the world,” according to an ASDS news release.

Members of ASDS volunteer to provide free skin cancer screenings and education about the importance of early detection through the 6-year program, a joint effort between ASDS and Neutrogena. Complimentary forms, brochures, sunscreen samples and marketing materials for the screenings are provided by Neutrogena to ASDS members. Through 2014, 14,854 free screenings were provided, the release said, with 10% of the people attending the screenings diagnosed with skin cancer.

George J. Hruza

“Our goals are to increase the number of community screenings and highlight the importance of sun protection and regular skin examinations,” George J. Hruza, MD, MBA, ASDS president, said in the release. “This program has the power to save lives and promote lifelong habits that lead to healthy skin.”

“This program exemplifies how associations make a difference every day — not just to the industry or profession they represent, but to society at large,” Hugh Cannon, chair of the Power of A Awards judging committee, said.

Participating board-certified dermatologists, dates and times of free screenings can be found by accessing the ASDS website.

Reference: www.asds.net