On Melanoma Monday it's Good to be Orange

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

On this, the second, official Melanoma Monday in Canada, the Honourable Dave Rodney, Associate Minister of Wellness with the Alberta government, is joining the CDA to recognize the day by encouraging Albertans to be diligent about their sun protection as part of the CDA's Light It Orange initiative.

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

"Even though melanoma is largely preventable, it is still the deadliest form of skin cancer. The 'Melanoma Monday Light it Orange' initiative is crucial in bringing attention to this disease" said Rodney. "It's important that Albertans become aware of the dangers associated with UV rays, and learn the steps they can take to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.

"We're very fortunate Minister Rodney supports our Light It Orange initiative," says Dr. Gordon Searles, President of the Canadian Dermatology Association "especially since Alberta is one of the sunniest places in Canada with over 2400 hours of sunshine a year."

Every week, more than 10 Albertans are diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer and 80 die a year from this highly preventable disease.

"Estimates show more new cases of skin cancer being diagnosed every year than prostate, breast and lung cancers combined," says Searles "it's news like this that make it even more apparent we need to be diligent when it comes to our sun protection."

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. 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.

 

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]