Military veterans face unique health challenges, and one of the most overlooked is their heightened risk of skin cancer. Apex Skin, led by founder and veteran Dr. Jorge Garcia-Zuazaga, is working to change that through expanded access to care and outreach programs designed specifically for veterans, including increased access to skin cancer screening and early detection.
“Skin cancer isn’t just a medical issue—for me, it’s a personal mission. During deployments, we spend countless hours exposed to harsh sun and hot tarmac, often without adequate protection. That constant exposure adds up, and years later, it can come back in the form of skin cancer—something too many of us don’t see coming until it’s too late,” said Dr. Garcia.
“As a veteran, I’ve walked the same paths, stood under the same unforgiving sun, and worn the same uniform. The military community is my family, my brothers and sisters, and I feel a deep responsibility to give back. That’s why I’m passionate about raising awareness and making sure every veteran knows they have options, support, and access to care. Early detection saves lives. We stood together then—and I’m here to stand with you now.”
Studies show that veterans are significantly more likely to experience skin cancer and other dermatologic conditions compared to civilians:
These findings highlight key skin cancer risk factors, including prolonged sun exposure during service, limited protective measures in deployment environments, and reduced access to dermatologic care after discharge. Increasing awareness and access to melanoma screening is critical for early detection.
Dr. Jorge Garcia-Zuazaga, MD, MBA, FAAD, FACMS, is more than Apex Skin’s founding physician—he is also a veteran who served as a flight surgeon for a Marine F-18 squadron. His unique perspective as both a physician and a veteran allows him to understand the culture, the challenges, and the urgent need for trusted care.
Because of this, Dr. Garcia has made it his mission to weave service into every aspect of medicine. Under his leadership, Apex Skin is expanding access to exceptional dermatologic care by offering:
To combine his two passions—dermatology and military service—Dr. Garcia created The Purple Heart Project, which offers free scar revisions to veterans injured in active duty. He understands that healing these scars can help restore confidence and improve the quality of life for deserving veterans.
Apex Skin urges veterans and their families to prioritize routine screenings and early detection. The practice also invites community leaders, policymakers, and veteran organizations to partner in spreading awareness.
For those searching for skin cancer screening near me, prioritizing regular skin checks is an important step in protecting long-term health. To learn more about how Apex Skin is supporting veterans through specialized care and initiatives, including The Purple Heart Project, explore how to get involved and access available resources.