Media Advisory - Canadian Dermatology Association hosts public skin cancer screening at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre on October 10, 2013.

NANAIMO, BC, Oct. 3, 2013 /CNW/ - On Thursday, October 10, 2013, the Canadian Dermatology Association and Nanaimo dermatologist, Dr. Gabriele Wiechert, will host a free skin cancer screening clinic to educate the public on the importance of early detection and prevention for all skin cancers. Participants will also learn how to conduct at-home skin cancer self-examinations.

	Who:	Dr. Gabriele Weichert, Nanaimo dermatologist, Canadian Dermatology Association
	What:	Skin cancer screening and early detection awareness event Interview & Photo Opp: a skin cancer screening; how to do a skin check
	When:	Thursday, October 10, 2013 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
	Where:	Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, Little Jack Room A
	Why:	To create awareness about importance of early detection by conducting regular at-home self-exams

Background:

• Research shows that 53% of melanoma skin cancers are discovered by the patients themselves and a further 17% by their family members.
• Early detection of skin cancer leads to a 90% or higher cure rate.
• An estimated 187,600 new cases of cancer (excluding about 81,700 non-melanoma skin cancers) and 75,500 deaths will occur in Canada in 2013.
• 2 people die every week in British Columbia from melanoma skin cancer.
• There will be an estimated 950 new cases of melanoma diagnosed in British Columbia this year, with 140 deaths.

Other relevant information:

• Skin cancer statistics and fact sheets will be available on-site
• Digital photos of skin cancers will also be made available upon request
• Dr. Weichert will be available for interviews between 11:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

 

 

SOURCE: Canadian Dermatology Association

Laura Craig, Communications Coordinator
Office: 613-738-1748 ext. 299
Cell: 613-716-2098
[email protected]