The OSF HealthCare Saint Elizabeth Medical Center is offering a free skin cancer screening from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, in the Radiation Oncology department at the Fox River Cancer Center in Ottawa.

According to an OSF press release, dermatologists from Pinnacle Dermatology in Ottawa will check moles or lesions to determine if further medical evaluation and possible interventions are recommended.

The screening is free, but appointments are required and can be made by calling 815-434-9999.

Although skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, it can often be cured if detected early, OSF said. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma are common forms of skin cancer related to long-term exposure to sunlight.

According to the release, early warning signs of skin cancer include:

• enlarging and darkening moles, changes in the color of an existing mole, particularly if red, white and blue pigmentation spreads to the surrounding skin
• changes in the consistency or shape of a pigmented spot
• a red area with a scaly, crusted surface that doesn’t heal
• small, shiny, firm raised growths on the skin that may ulcerate or form scabs in the center
• signs of inflammation on the skin that surrounds an existing mole
• Those who are exhibiting symptoms are encouraged to attend the free screening and evaluation.

For more information, call 815-539-7461.