OTTAWA, June 8, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) is focused on helping Canadians have safe fun in the sun and is sharing the message that sunscreens are safe, effective and a vital part of everyday sun safety. Along with hats, sunglasses, clothing and seeking shade, sunscreens play a major role in preventing skin cancer and reducing the photo-aging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
"Making sun safety part of your everyday routine doesn't take long and it will not only save you from red, painful sunburns, it will, most importantly, reduce your risk of developing skin cancer," says Dr. Gordon Searles, President of the Canadian Dermatology Association.
With 81,700 new cases of skin cancer expected to be diagnosed this year and 1,050 deaths as a result of melanoma, the CDA is urging Canadians to protect themselves and their families while enjoying their outdoor activities by using sunscreen.
Sunscreen ingredients such as oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate have recently come under scrutiny due to claims of hormone disruption and malformations in babies whose mothers used sunscreen during their pregnancy. But Canadians can rest assured that sunscreens are safe; there have been no peer-reviewed studies which provide conclusive evidence to support claims of hormone disruption or malformations.
Sunscreen and other sun protective measures like hats, sunglasses and avoiding peak hours (11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) can go a long way to protecting your health now and in the future. People who need help choosing a sunscreen should look for bottles or packaging bearing the Canadian Dermatology Association logo. These products have been reviewed by CDA member dermatologists as part of the CDA's Sun Protection Program and have met all the approval criteria, through rigorous independent laboratory testing.
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
Jennifer Scott, Director of Communications
Cell: 613-447-8611 | [email protected]
Laura Craig, Communications Coordinator
Cell: 613-716-2098 | [email protected]
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