MONCTON, NB, June 3, 2014 /CNW/ - The Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) is focused on helping Canadians have safe fun in the sun and want to be sure families include sunscreen as part of their everyday sun safety. Along with hats, sunglasses, clothing and seeking shade, sunscreens play a major role in preventing skin cancer and reducing the photo-aging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Summer is right around the corner, so be ready for it by having hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. Standing in the aisle at the drugstore facing row upon row of sunscreen not knowing how to choose one from the next can be daunting. With so many sunscreens on the market, it's hard to know the best option for you and your family.
For the last 26 years the CDA has been making that decision a little easier for Canadians through its Sun Protection Program, which scientifically evaluates sunscreens through independent laboratory testing. To help Canadians identify these sunscreens at the drugstore look for the CDA's Sun Protection Program logo that says "Recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association".
"For most, trying to choose the right sunscreen can be a challenge", says Moncton dermatologist Dr. Chantal Chiasson. "Many sunscreens offer inadequate protection from the sun and contain questionable ingredients. By looking for the CDA logo, purchasing a sunscreen to protect yourself and your family becomes a lot easier."
The CDA recommends looking for sunscreens that are broad-spectrum, meaning they protect against both UVA and UVB, and have an SPF 30 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied generously 15 to 20 minutes before heading outside and reapplied regularly especially after swimming or heavy sweating. A summer without sunburn is a lot more fun.
About Sun Awareness Week
The Canadian Dermatology Association has organized a nationwide Sun Awareness Week since 1989. The purpose of the annual campaign is to increase the awareness of Canadians about the harmful effects of UV radiation and the ways to protect the skin from UV exposure, in order to decrease the incidence of skin cancer in Canada. During National Sun Awareness Week, June 2 - 8, 2014, dermatologists will volunteer at free public skin cancer screenings and various community events across the country. For more information, please visit www.dermatology.ca.
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
Jennifer Scott, Director, Communications
Office: 613-738-1748 x 222 | Cell: 613-716-2098
[email protected]
Share this article