Croatia: Nearly 1,000 citizens screened for moles in STOP SHOP campaign

This spring, STOP SHOP's "STOP! Pregledaj se!" campaign provided free mole screenings at all 19 of its Croatian locations, examining a record 941 citizens. The initiative, designed to increase access to preventative skin health checks, significantly exceeded its goals. Dermatologists identified 43 malignant skin tumors, including 11 melanomas, and 24 precancerous skin changes. They also noted 78 atypical moles requiring further monitoring.

The project, which started as a pilot in 2024, has grown into a major preventative health initiative in Croatia. Last year, it expanded to seven locations, drawing over 400 participants. This year's nationwide reach reflects growing public recognition of health services offered where people shop and conduct daily errands. Joško Piteša, Country Manager Operations for Croatia at STOP SHOP, stated, "For STOP SHOP, social responsibility is not a sporadic activity but an integral part of how we do business. We believe a retail park can play an important role in the community beyond its primary function." He expressed pride in connecting the community, health experts, and prevention, yielding tangible benefits.

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For STOP SHOP, social responsibility is not a sporadic activity but an integral part of how we do business. We believe a retail park can play an important role in the community beyond its primary function.

The campaign's success is attributed to its simplicity: no long waits, complex organization, or costs. Citizens received expert dermatological advice and referrals when needed. Health experts emphasize that accessible prevention is readily adopted by the public. The results reinforce the message that early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment of melanoma and other skin malignancies, with a few minutes spent on a screening potentially altering a patient's treatment course or even saving a life.

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We believe a retail park can play an important role in the community beyond its primary function. The results of this year's campaign show how important it is to provide citizens with an easy and accessible way to get preventative check-ups. We are proud that through this initiative, we have once again managed to connect the community, health experts, and prevention in a way that brings concrete benefits to people.