Summer and Sunburn Shouldn't be Synonymous

ST JOHN'S, NL, May 13, 2013 /CNW/ - The Victoria Day long weekend is just around the corner and dermatologists want to remind Canadians to grab the sunscreen as they head outside to enjoy the sunshine. The Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) feels sun safety and regular skin checks should be part of the everyday routine, which is why they are hosting a public skin cancer screening at the Avalon Mall today.

"With four months of long summer days ahead of us, it's extremely important people start thinking about their skin's health now," says Dr. Ian Landells, St John's dermatologist and regional director of the CDA's Sun Awareness Program "Putting on sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher, wearing a hat and sunglasses, and seeking shade when the sun's UV rays are strongest are easy changes to work into your day."

Estimates for 2012 expected over 81,000 new cases of skin cancer would be diagnosed. Skin cancer is the only form of cancer that is clearly visible on the skin and one of a small number of cancers that is highly preventable. "Diligence is key to skin cancer prevention and early detection really does save lives," says Landells. The CDA urges all Canadians to make regular at-home skin cancer self-examinations part of their routine and have created a guide, Know the Signs, Save a Life, to help Canadians do just that.

People who need help choosing a sunscreen should look for bottles or packaging bearing the CDA's Sun Protection Program recognition logo. The formulae of these products have been reviewed by CDA member dermatologists and have met the strict approval criteria, through independent laboratory testing.

Making sun safety part of the everyday routine will not only save Canadians from painful sunburns, it will, most importantly, reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.

About Sun Awareness Week

The Canadian Dermatology Association has organized a nationwide Sun Awareness Week since 1989. The purpose of the annual campaign is to increase the awareness of Canadians about the harmful effects of UV radiation and the ways to protect the skin from UV exposure, in order to decrease the incidence of skin cancer in Canada. During National Sun Awareness Week, June 3 - 9, 2013, dermatologists will volunteer at free public skin cancer screenings and other community events. For more information, please visit www.dermatology.ca.

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 www.Twitter.com/CdnDermatology or www.Facebook.com/CdnDermatology.

SOURCE: Canadian Dermatology Association

Laura Craig, Communications Coordinator
Cell: 613-716-2098 | [email protected]