MEDIA ADVISORY - OTTAWA - Dermatologists to screen members of Ottawa's homeless community for skin cancer on Melanoma Monday.

OTTAWA, May 5, 2013 /CNW/ - Organized as part of the Canadian Dermatology Association's Sun Awareness Program, dermatologists will be visiting the Ottawa Mission to provide skin cancer screenings to members of the homeless community who are at increased risk of developing skin cancer due to their prolonged sun exposure.

Who:	Dr. Gordon Searles, President of the Canadian Dermatology Association	Dr. Denise Wexler, Past President, Canadian Dermatology Association
	Nurses from the Ottawa Hospital
What:	Interview & Photo Op
When:	Monday, May 6, 2013
	11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where:	Ottawa Mission, 35 Waller Street
Background:

• It is estimated that the cost of treating skin cancer will be over $1 billion by 2031.
• There are more skin cancers diagnosed in Canada than any other form of cancer.  It is also the most common form of cancer in the world.
• Research shows that 53% of melanoma skin cancers are discovered by patients themselves and a further 17% by their family members.
• Melanoma is a less common but most dangerous form of skin cancer since it can metastasize and spread in the body.

Other relevant information:

• Melanoma Monday is also being marked across Canada by CDA's efforts to paint the nation orange.
• CDA will also be hosting a skin cancer screening and reception on Parliament Hill and discussing issues of patient safety with various Members of Parliament
• Canadians are encouraged to wear orange to show their support for the fight against skin cancer and tweet their photos with #SPOTorange and/or #MelanomaMonday
• Various venues across Canada will be illuminated orange for skin cancer awareness, a list of which can be found on dermatology.ca
• A number of Canada's mayors 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.

SOURCE: Canadian Dermatology Association

Jennifer Scott, Director, Communications
Cell: 613.447.8611

Laura Craig, Coordinator, Communications
Cell: 613.716.2098