Protecting Those Who Protect Us: First Responder Skin Cancer Screening
First responders spend their careers running toward danger to keep our communities safe. But while they are highly trained to handle fire, trauma, and medical emergencies, they face a silent occupational hazard that turnout gear and uniforms can't entirely block: a significantly elevated risk of skin cancer.
Recently, the team at Elite Dermatology Physicians had the privilege of hosting a volunteer skin cancer screening event dedicated entirely to our local firefighters, police officers, and EMTs. We were thrilled to welcome Yesul Kim, MD, Aaron Steen, MD, and Alyssa Miceli, DO who volunteered their time for this amazing cause.
The Hidden Risk in the Line of Duty
Most people know that unprotected UV exposure is the primary driver of skin cancer. In fact, the general population statistics are already sobering:
1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they reach 70.
But for firefighters, the risk is compounded heavily by their work environment. Recent studies out of Australia—a global leader in melanoma research—reveal that firefighters face up to a 45% increased risk of melanoma compared to the general public.
Why? It’s not just the sun. Modern fires burn hotter and release a toxic soup of chemicals, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These known carcinogens cling to turnout gear, mix with sweat, and are absorbed directly through the skin. Over a career of exposures, this creates a perfect storm for cellular skin damage.
Giving Back: The AAD and Elite Dermatology Commitment
At Elite Dermatology, we believe that elite medical care shouldn't just exist within the four walls of our clinic. As proud members of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), we share their deep commitment to community service and public health.
Through initiatives like the SPOT me® program, the AAD has championed free public screenings across the country, saving countless lives by catching melanomas and non-melanoma skin cancers when they are most treatable. Inspired by this mission of giving back, our physicians and staff volunteered their weekend to perform full-body, professional skin exams for dozens of local first responders.
During the event, we identified several suspicious lesions that required follow-up biopsy—proving exactly why these preventative, on-the-ground events are so crucial.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Skin
Whether you are a first responder or a civilian, early detection is your absolute best defense. Skin cancer is highly curable if caught early.
Decontaminate immediately: For our first responders, showering and fully washing gear within an hour of a call drastically reduces the skin's absorption of toxic chemicals.
Know the ABCDEs of Melanoma: Check your skin monthly for Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving size, shape, or color.
Schedule an annual screening: See a board-certified dermatologist once a year for a professional baseline exam.
To the men and women who joined us: thank you for your service, your bravery, and for trusting us with your care. We have your back, so you can keep protecting ours.
To schedule your annual skin check, contact the Elite Dermatology office today.
