The largest targeted skin cancer screening of its kind was launched at the Cape Town Cycle Tour. The Western Cape Government is supporting Skin Scan, powered by Tim’s Test. This is an innovative screening initiative that is transforming how skin cancer is detected and prevented in high-risk populations. As far as we know, this is the largest mass screening of this nature in the world, of an at-risk population.
“Skin Scan shows what is possible when innovation, partnerships and public health come together,” says the Health and Wellness MEC, Mireille Wenger.
The largest targeted skin cancer screening of its kind was launched
Launched in 2025 in honour of the late Tim Brink, Skin Scan offers free dermatological screenings to cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. This is a group particularly vulnerable to prolonged sun exposure. Brink was a cycle enthusiast and the editor of Bicycling Magazine SA and Ride Magazine. He sadly lost his life to skin cancer.
Skin Scan offers free dermatological screenings
This year, the whole-of-society initiative brought together various partners to expand its reach and impact. This includes the Western Cape Government, the Cape Town Cycle Tour, Clicks, pharmaceutical partners, and private dermatologists. The private dermatologists are led by Dr Michael Mol and Dr Dagmar Whitaker.
Wenger added, “Early detection saves lives, and initiatives like this bring care directly to people in spaces where they live, work and exercise.”
Skin cancer screening
The Health and Wellness MEC, Mireille Wenger, said the initiative reflects the Western Cape Government’s commitment to prevention and partnership-driven healthcare.
The results from the 2025 initiative highlight both the scale of the risk and the power of early detection:
- 1,408 people screened
- 504 clinically significant lesions identified
- 12 confirmed melanomas detected
She added, “This is exactly the kind of proactive, people-centred approach we are driving in the Western Cape.”
Dr Zunaid Ahmed of Tygerberg Hospital, who has been closely involved in the clinical component of the initiative, emphasised the importance of opportunistic screening.
“What makes this initiative so powerful is that it reaches people who may not otherwise seek medical attention. Detecting lesions early, especially melanomas, significantly improves outcomes. The number of clinically significant findings reinforces the importance of regular skin checks, particularly for those with high sun exposure.”
Tim’s Test is open . A world-first melanoma screening initiative!
Findings from the 2025 screening also highlighted that:
– 1 in 3 participants had a potentially significant skin condition
– A high burden of sun-induced lesions was observed
– Many individuals screened had no prior diagnosis despite risk factors
These insights reinforce the need for routine skin checks, improved public awareness, and consistent sun protection behaviours.
