Canadian Dermatology Association hosts skin cancer screening at Nova Scotia Legislature on April 10, 2013

HALIFAX, April 10, 2013 /CNW/ - On Wednesday, April 10, 2013 Halifax dermatologists and dermatology residents will be screening MLA's and legislature staff for skin cancer and showing them how to conduct their own at-home self-exams.

	Who:	Members of the Legislative Assembly and their staff
		Dr. Kerri Purdy, Halifax dermatologist, Canadian Dermatology Association
		Dr. Angela Law, Dalhousie University dermatology resident
	What:	Skin cancer screening and early detection awareness event
	When:	Wednesday, April 10, 2013 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
	Where:	Legislative Assembly
		Uniacke Room, Province House, Halifax
	Why:	To create awareness about importance of early detection conducting regular at-home self-exams

Background:

• Nova Scotia has the highest incidence of melanoma skin cancer in Canada (source: Canadian Cancer Statistics 2011).
• In 2011, the incidence rate in men was 23 cases per 100,000, compared to 12 cases per 100,000 in Saskatchewan.
• The incidence rate of melanoma in women in Nova Scotia in 2011 was 19 per 100,000, compared to 9 per 100,000 in Manitoba.
• Research shows that 53% of melanoma skin cancers are discovered by the patients themselves and a further 17% by their family members.

Other relevant information:

• Digital photos of skin cancers will also be made available upon request

 

SOURCE: Canadian Dermatology Association

Jennifer Scott, Communications Director
Office: 613-738-1748 x 222 | Cell: 613-716-2098
[email protected] 

Laura Craig, Communications Coordinator
Office: 613-738-1748 x 229 | Cell: 613-716-2098 
[email protected]