MEDIA ADVISORY - OTTAWA - Dermatologists to screen MPs, Senators and staff for skin cancer on May 6, Melanoma Monday.

OTTAWA, May 5, 2013 /CNW/ - Organized as part of the Canadian Dermatology Association's Sun Awareness Program, members of the CDA Board of Directors and local Ottawa dermatologists will be screening MPs, Senators, and their staff for skin cancer and showing them how to perform self-examinations at home.

Who:	Dr. Gordon Searles, President of the Canadian Dermatology Association	Dr. Richard Langley, President-elect, Canadian Dermatology Association
	Dermatologists representing various regions of Canada
What:	Interview Opportunity
When:	Monday, May 6, 2013
	1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
	Before May 6, call 613.447.8611 for interview
	On May 6, call 613.716.2098 for interview
Where:	Room 602, Centre Block
Why:	To highlight the need for prevention and early detection education
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 for Ottawa's homeless community at the Mission at 35 Waller Street, Ottawa, Ontario
• 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