The Biggest Little Skin Cancer Screening Returns May 7

Sunshine is a way of life in Nevada, but with more than 300 days of sun each year, skin cancer is a serious concern. That’s why Dr. Whitney Hovenic and her team of dermatologists are once again offering free skin checks at the second annual Biggest Little Skin Cancer Screening on Tuesday, May 7, from 4-7 p.m. at Greater Nevada Field.

After a successful inaugural event last year, Dr. Hovenic and her colleagues are doubling down on their mission to help Nevadans catch skin cancer early—when it’s easiest to treat. In partnership with Nevada Cancer Coalition, the Reno Aces, and other community supporters, the event aims to make skin cancer screenings accessible to all.

Why It Matters

“Anyone who has skin can get skin cancer,” Dr. Hovenic says. “With our high-altitude sunshine exposure, it’s especially important for Nevadans to stay on top of their skin health. The good news? If we find abnormal growths and cancerous lesions early, they’re much easier to treat—sometimes right in the office.”

At last year’s skin check, 182 people were screened for skin cancer and 11 “likely” skin cancers were identified on site, including melanomas, the deadliest type of skin cancer. A success story from the 2024 event is a man who came in for a spot on his arm, but turned out to have a stage 1a melanoma on his back that was identified and removed by the doctor a few weeks later.

The screening event is completely free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Depending on demand, registrations may close at 6:30 p.m. to allow doctors time to complete the final screenings by 7 p.m. Attendees should wear loose-fitting clothing so dermatologists can easily check sun-exposed areas like the neck, arms, legs, and back.

Who Should Attend?

Anyone can benefit from a skin check, but organizers especially encourage those who work or spend a lot of time outdoors—landscapers, construction workers, first responders, outdoor athletes, and more—to stop by. If you’ve never had a skin check or have a spot you’re worried about, this event is for you!

Beyond the Skin Check

The event isn’t just about screenings. Attendees can also:

• Receive a sun safety swag bag with free sunscreen and a guide to spotting suspicious moles.
• Learn more about sun safety and skin cancer prevention from Nevada Cancer Coalition experts.
• Attend the game! It’s a game day for the Reno Aces who play against the Las Vegas Aviators. Purchase a ticket and enjoy the game while you’re there.

Reno Aces General Manager & COO Chris Phillips shared his enthusiasm for the event: “We are thrilled to host this free skin cancer screening as part of our commitment to the health and well-being of our community. This initiative aligns with our broader efforts to promote awareness and proactive health measures among our fans and neighbors.”

Parking & Entry

Attendees can park for free in the Parking Garage next to the stadium on Ballpark Lane and enter through the Rotunda Gate on Evans Avenue.

There will be a separate entrance for the skin check event. For those who also want to attend the game, purchase tickets in advance at https://www.milb.com/reno/tickets.