OTTAWA, May 6, 2012 /CNW/ - The Canadian Dermatology Association's (CDA) Board of Directors has declared the first Monday in May, to be Melanoma Monday in Canada.
On this first Melanoma Monday the CDA will be meeting with members of Parliament to discuss issues of patient safety affecting the overall health and well-being of Canadians. Ottawa-area dermatologists will also be on the Hill screening MPs, Senators and their staff for skin cancer and showing them how to perform an at-home self-examination.
"Estimates show more new cases of skin cancer being diagnosed each year than prostate, breast and lung cancers combined" says Dr. Denise Wexler, President of the Canadian Dermatology Association.
As the CDA's media partner in this inaugural event, Best Health magazine will be using its extensive social media presence to help spread melanoma awareness messages. CDA has also partnered with Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS), who in February received Health Canada approval of their new melanoma drug Yervoy. "We're very fortunate Best Health shares our messages of prevention and early detection," says Wexler "and to have the support of a company like BMS whose mandate includes the care of melanoma patients is encouraging."
CDA plans to formally recognize Melanoma Monday annually with activities to raise awareness about seriousness of melanoma, inform Canadians about the dangers of skin cancer, how they can prevent it as well as learn to identify changes through early detection. Research shows that 53% of melanoma skin cancers are discovered by the patients themselves and a further 17% by their family members.
"With the ever-rising incidence of skin cancer in Canada, which is the most common form of cancer in our country, it is imperative that Canadians take action to protect themselves and their families" says Wexler.
About CDA
The Canadian Dermatology Association, founded in 1925, represents Canadian dermatologists. The association strives to provide 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 Twitter.com/CdnDermatology or Facebook.com/CdnDermatology.
For further information please contact:
Jennifer Scott, Communications & Projects Officer
Office: 613.738.1748 / 1.800.267.3376 Ext. 222 | Cell: 613.447.8611
[email protected]
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