Free skin check-ups in ZDK: May is the month for early melanoma detection

(Patria) - The Institute for Health and Food Safety of Zenica (INZ), in cooperation with the Ministry of Health of the Zenica-Doboj Canton (ZDK), is implementing the most comprehensive cycle of free preventive skin check-ups in the canton during May. This is a program with a clear public health goal – early detection of malignant skin tumors, including melanoma, and raising awareness about the importance of prevention and responsible health behavior.

According to Dr. Elma Kuduzović, head of the Public Health Department at INZ, the program has been continuously implemented since 2013, and in recent years it has been expanded to the entire canton, making check-ups accessible to a larger number of citizens. This intensity of check-ups within a single month represents a breakthrough in preventive activities in the Zenica-Doboj Canton.

Why are preventive skin check-ups crucial

Malignant skin diseases, especially melanoma, are on the rise in global statistics. However, a key fact remains unchanged – early detection significantly increases treatment success.  The preventive check-ups conducted by INZ are quick and painless, performed visually and with dermatoscopy, and include a check of the entire skin (scalp, nails, mucous membranes).

In case of suspicious changes, patients are referred for further diagnostics, ensuring continuity of healthcare. The program will be implemented in several municipalities and cities, with appointments organized in cooperation with health centers and local health institutions.

In the May "cycle", eight doctors and ten nurses will conduct check-ups in forty-two (42) daily shifts across ten municipalities and cities of ZDK. Citizens of Usora will have their check-ups at the location and times of the Health Center in Doboj Jug, while appointments for Olovo (in the second half of June) will be determined later. 

How to prepare for the check-up

To ensure the check-up is as effective as possible, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove, be prepared for an examination in underwear, avoid makeup, creams, and nail polish on the day of the check-up, have hair styled for scalp examination, and bring previous medical documentation (if available).

Citizens who notice changes on their skin – such as new moles, changes that grow, bleed, or itch – should point them out to the doctor during the check-up. This program is not only focused on diagnostics but also on educating the public about the importance of regular self-examinations, protection from UV radiation, and timely medical consultation.

– The Institute for Health and Food Safety of Zenica continuously invests in strengthening preventive programs, and the scope of check-ups in a single month confirms a strategic approach to improving the health of the population. Therefore, we invite the citizens of ZDK to take advantage of this opportunity and undergo a free check-up – because early detection truly saves lives, emphasizes Dr. Kuduzović.

Details with phone numbers, appointment times, and locations are available on the Institute's website and Facebook page (inz.ba). Appointments are adapted to the availability of doctors and staff in the teams, as well as the spatial capacities and capabilities of local health centers. Check-ups are conducted at local health centers (in Zenica – INZ), with prior registration and appointment scheduling. In Zenica, check-ups are scheduled for May 14, 18, 19, 22, 25, 26, and 29. In Visoko, for May 08, 13, 15, 22, and 29. In Breza on May 23. In Tešanj on May 20, 21, 22, 25, and 26. In Doboj Jug from May 11 to 14. In Kakanj on May 22, 26, 29, and June 02. Check-ups in Žepče are from May 18 to 21. In Visoko on May 08, 13, 15, 22, and 29. In Maglaj from June 01 to 03. In Zavidovići, they are planned for the period from May 11 to 15.