Catch the rays, not the risk: Free skin cancer screenings this September

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in South Africa, with 48 000 reported cases and 900 deaths every year.

South Africa leads Australia globally with the highest rate of skin cancer with approximately 20,000 cases and 700 deaths recorded each year. And many South African individuals who would benefit greatly from screening have very limited access to it.

The campaign line, "Catch the rays, not the risk," encourages the public to practice sun safety and enjoy the outdoors responsibly, while bringing medical access directly to communities.

To address the lack of access to skin screening facilities, BIODERMA and NAOS Ecobiology are hosting the third annual Skin Health Circuit in three cities across South Africa this September.

The event dates and locations can be found below. The initiative will offer complimentary skin screenings across three cities:

Participants are invited to engage in the many activities taking place such as:

BIODERMA Skin Health Circuit returns for its 3rd annual free skin cancer screening Campaign in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban during September 2026.

The Skin Health Circuit operates with the support of medical, athletic, and educational organisations such as BIODERMA and NAOS Ecobiology, partnering with Sunday Shuffle, 226ERS, Booksy, SkinScan, FotoFinder, and Dr. Derma.

The Melanoma Society of South Africa is also providing support. The campaign also has academic backing from five major South African Academic institutions:

By bringing free professional screenings directly to communities in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban, the Skin Health Circuit removes the financial and logistical barriers that often delay life-saving diagnoses. Protect your health this September: catch the rays, but leave the risk behind.

Attendees can book their free skin screening through the Booksy platform, and runners can register for the free 5km event via Quicket (free to enter; registration is already open).

Supporters are also encouraged to use the campaign hashtags #getscreened and #sayyestoSPF online. IOL