Rīga Hosts Free Melanoma Screening to Boost Early Cancer Detection

A free public melanoma screening event will take place on 22 September in Rīga. Organised at the 1st General Hospital, the check-up aims to promote early detection of skin cancer. Over 200 cases of melanoma are diagnosed in Latvia each year, with around 70 proving fatal.

The event will run from 9:00 to 12:00 in the hospital's Large Conference Hall. Participation requires booking an appointment in advance, as walk-ins will not be accepted. The dedicated phone line for scheduling is +371 67366323.

Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment success for melanoma. Similar past initiatives have drawn between 20,000 and 30,000 attendees annually, according to health ministry reports up to 2024. Factors like public awareness campaigns, rural health insurance access, economic status, and pandemic restrictions have influenced participation rates in previous years.

The screening offers a chance for early detection without cost. Appointments are mandatory, and organisers encourage those concerned about skin health to book a slot. The event reflects ongoing efforts to reduce melanoma deaths through accessible prevention.