It's Melanoma Monday, Let's SPOT Orange

TORONTO, May 6, 2013 /CNW/ - It is Melanoma Monday and the Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) is celebrating by painting the nation orange for skin cancer awareness.

On this, the second, official Melanoma Monday in Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society in Ontario is joining the CDA to recognize the day by encouraging Ontarians to be diligent about their sun protection and spot orange as part of the CDA's Melanoma Monday Light It Orange initiative.

"Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer but it's not the only one Canadians should be concerned about," says Dr. Gordon Searles, President of the Canadian Dermatology Association, "the Light It Orange initiative is about raising public awareness of all forms of skin cancer because squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas can be equally disfiguring and they too require medical intervention."

The goal of the Light It Orange initiative is to put a spotlight on skin cancer by encouraging Canadians to wear orange and make the conversation with their loved ones about prevention and early detection. While more prevalent in certain groups, anyone can get skin cancer which is why learning how to protect yourself and knowing what to look for is so important. Research shows 53% of melanoma skin cancers are discovered by the patients and another 17% are discovered by their family members.

"As summer approaches, we encourage Ontarians to enjoy outdoor activity and be sun-safe by protecting themselves and families from the sun," says Joanne Di Nardo, Sr. Manager Public Issues. "Skin cancer is a growing concern, especially among young people. We join the Light It Orange initiative to raise awareness about what individuals can do to reduce their risk and to encourage government to protect youth from cancer-causing indoor tanning by passing the Skin Cancer Prevention Act."

One person in Ontario dies from melanoma every day and another seven people are diagnosed with this potentially deadly but highly preventable form of skin cancer.

"Today we're wearing orange to let Canadians who have, or have had, skin cancer know they're not fighting the battle alone," added Searles, "we're in it together."

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. All 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.

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.

About the Canadian Cancer Society

For 75 years, the Canadian Cancer Society has been with Canadians in the fight for life. We have been relentless in our commitment to prevent cancer, fund research and support Canadians touched by cancer. From this foundation, we will work with Canadians to change cancer forever so fewer Canadians are diagnosed with the disease and more survive. When you want to know more about cancer, visit our website at cancer.ca or call our toll-free bilingual Cancer Information Service at 1-888-939-3333 (TTY: 1-866-786-3934). 

SOURCE: Canadian Dermatology Association

For more information about the CDA:
Jennifer Scott
Director, Communications
Office: 613.738.1738 x 222 | Cell: 613.716.2098
[email protected] 

For more information about the CCS:
Christine Koserski
Sr. Coordinator, Communications
416-323-7030
[email protected]