OTTAWA, May 6, 2013 /CNW/ - On this, the second, Melanoma Monday in Canada, the Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) returns to the Hill to talk about health and safety.
The CDA will be meeting with members of Parliament to discuss issues of patient safety affecting the overall health and well-being of Canadians. Ottawa-area dermatologists will also be on the Hill providing skin cancer screenings to MPs, Senators and their staff and showing them how to perform at-home skin cancer self-examinations as part of the Light It Orange skin cancer awareness campaign.
"Estimates show more new cases of skin cancer being diagnosed each year than prostate, breast and lung cancers combined" says Dr. Gordon Searles, President of the Canadian Dermatology Association. "With the ever-rising incidence of skin cancer in Canada, which is the most common form of cancer in the world, it is imperative Canadians take action to protect themselves and their families."
In the interest of protecting Canadians, the CDA will also be lobbying for formal regulations about the use of lasers in cosmetic and dermatologic procedures and pushing for a more structured certification process, as results of a 2012 survey CDA conducted indicated many dermatologists were regularly treating patients who had been injured by inadequately trained personnel.
"Lasers are extremely powerful tools and their use in medicine requires a specific understanding of their function, their impact on the skin and the ability to treat potential side effects," says Searles. "Without proper regulations and accreditation processes, Canadians are at risk of serious injury since the popularity of cosmetic laser procedures continues to grow."
Until such as there are federal regulations introduced concerning the proper use of lasers, the CDA urges Canadians to ask more questions about the credentials of cosmetic service providers or to speak to their primary care physician for a referral to a dermatologist or other physician with formal laser training.
About Melanoma Monday 2013
Melanoma Monday is an internationally recognized day of skin cancer awareness. Melanoma Monday in Ottawa is also being marked across Canada by CDA's efforts to paint the nation orange, which include a skin cancer screening for Ottawa's homeless community at the Mission at 35 Waller Street.
About Light It Orange
The CDA has invited Canada's Ministers of Health, city mayors and popular venues to put a spotlight on skin cancer by illuminating their respective legislatures, city halls and tourist attraction orange for skin cancer awareness. Canadians are encouraged to wear orange and talk to their loved ones about sun protection and skin cancer prevention. They are also encouraged share photos of themselves, friends and coworkers dressed in orange on twitter with the hashtag #SPOTorange or #MelanomaMonday to share their part of this national initiative. A number of Canada's mayors who recognize the importance of raising awareness about skin cancer prevention and have elected to proclaim May 6, 2013 as Melanoma Monday or Light It Orange day in their cities.
About the CDA
The Canadian Dermatology Association, founded in 1925, represents Canadian dermatologists. The association provides easy access to the largest, most reliable source of medical knowledge on dermatology. CDA exists to advance the science and art of medicine and surgery related to the care of the skin, hair and nails; provide continuing professional development for its members; support and advance patient care; provide public education on sun protection and other aspects of skin health; and promote a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. By doing so, CDA informs and empowers both medical professionals and the Canadian public.
To learn more about what the work CDA does visit www.dermatology.ca or join the conversation on www.Twitter.com/CdnDermatology or www.Facebook.com/CdnDermatology.
SOURCE: Canadian Dermatology Association
For further information please contact:
Jennifer Scott, Director, Communications
Office: 613.738.1748 x 222
On May 6: 613.447.8611 or [email protected]
Laura Craig, Coordinator, Communications
Office: 613.738.1748 x 229
On May 6: 613.716.2098
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