Sun Protection Should be a Year-Round Priority for All Canadians

OTTAWA, Oct. 25, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) is hosting a public skin cancer screening with local dermatologists at the Nepean Sportsplex today to remind Canadians about the importance of year-round sun protection.

The sun's UV rays have the same damaging effects on your skin all year long and by wearing sunscreen 365 days per year you can prevent early signs of aging, and most importantly, help prevent skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Canada and around the world; in 2013 approximately 6,000 Canadians will be diagnosed with melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. This is why the CDA is asking Canadians to rethink how they use sunscreen this winter.

Photoaging is the premature aging of the skin (sun spots, loss of skin tone, deep wrinkles and sagging skin) caused by repeated unprotected exposure to the sun's UV radiation. During the winter, UV rays continue to affect the exposed skin on the face, head, neck and hands. In fact, skiing in the winter can cause more damage to the exposed skin because UV levels increase by 10% to 12% with every 1,000 meters of increase in altitude.

"We want to encourage Canadians to enjoy outdoor activities this winter, but to also be conscious of the long-term impact the sun's UV rays have on unprotected skin" says Ottawa dermatologist, Dr. Simone Fahim. "Skin cancer is a growing concern, especially among young people, which is why we need to raise awareness about the importance of wearing sunscreen, not only to protect against sunburns in the summer, but to help delay the signs of ageing and prevent skin cancer later in life".

One person in Ontario dies from melanoma every day and another seven people are diagnosed with this potentially deadly form of skin cancer. Luckily, skin cancer is preventable and highly curable when found early, the key is knowing what to look for. The CDA and local dermatologists host free, public skin cancer screenings across Canada each year, to educate the public on the importance of sun safety and how to do regular skin-checks as part of a healthy lifestyle for beautiful skin now and in years to come.

Event information:
Public skin cancer screening
Nepean Sportsplex, Hall F (Entrance #2, 2nd Floor)
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

SOURCE: Canadian Dermatology Association

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