The Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care and Montefiore Medical Center’s Division of Dermatology are offering free melanoma/skin cancer screenings for people of all ages on Saturday, May 11, 2013, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care, 1521 Jarret Place.

Screening participants will undergo a total skin exam that takes 10 minutes and can save their life. All screening participants will receive a free UV wristband to monitor exposure to harmful UVA and UVB rays. The sun-sensitive band changes color to show when to reapply sunscreen and when to get out of the sun.

Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is the fastest growing cancer in men and the second fastest in women in the U.S. It also is the number one cancer in young people ages 25-29. Experts attribute the rise in melanoma cases to exposure to harmful UV rays outdoors and excessive tanning bed use.

Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, often appearing as a new mole or one that has changed in appearance. If it goes undetected and spreads, the results can be devastating. Skin screening is very effective in detecting the disease early, when there is a 95 percent cure rate.

Note: Appointments are encouraged, but not required. Call (718) 862-8840 to register and for more information.