The Department of Dermatology at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center is a sponsor of the 2023 Memphis Miles for Melanoma 5K set for Saturday, June 3, at Shelby Farms Park.
“The faculty and staff in the Department of Dermatology at UTHSC care deeply about skin cancer and melanoma awareness, research, and treatment,” said Whitney Gadd Shroyer, MD, assistant professor in the Department of Dermatology. “Being a sponsor for the race is a way for us to give back to our community and support our patients with melanoma and their families.”
After participating in the race for many years, this year the department has joined local and national sponsors as a sponsor in the event’s second return following the COVID-19 pandemic. The event is a part of the nationwide Miles for Melanoma series to support the Melanoma Research Foundation. The Melanoma Research Foundation is the largest independent organization devoted to melanoma, committed to the support of medical research in finding effective treatments and a cure for melanoma, and advocating for the melanoma community. The funds raised will support melanoma research, education, and advocacy.
According to the Melanoma Research Foundation, Melanoma is a type of cancer, most often of the skin, that occurs in melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin that colors the skin, hair, and eyes. Melanoma can appear on the skin as well as areas that are not exposed to sunlight including on the soles of feet, palms of the hands, inside the mouth, and in the eyes. In 2023, nearly 187,000 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with melanoma.
“There is a common misconception that melanoma only affects people with fair skin, but it can occur in people of all races and skin types. Melanoma is commonly diagnosed on areas of prolonged sun exposure, but it can also appear in places that are not exposed to the sun,” said Dr. Shroyer. “It is also important to know that patients with suppressed immune systems are at a higher risk for developing skin cancers. Consistent use of sunscreen and seeing a board-certified dermatologist for any new or changing skin lesions is key to prevention and early diagnosis.”
Check-in for the event will begin at 7:30 a.m. The opening ceremony will be at 8:30 a.m. and the race will begin at 9 a.m. To register as an individual, form a team, or join a team, visit the Memphis Miles for Melanoma race website. The UTHSC Department of Dermatology has also formed a team for the race called, “Run from the Sun.” Visit the team’s website to join or donate.
For additional information, contact the Department of Dermatology at 901.448.5769.