ATLANTA (March 24, 2010) – Sen. Don Thomas (R-Dalton) co-hosted Skin Cancer Awareness Day at the State Capitol today with the Atlanta Dermatological Association, the Georgia Society of Dermatologists and the Skin Cancer Awareness Network (SCAN) Foundation. This annual event is a chance for participants to be checked for skin cancer by professional dermatologists and they can learn about the signs and dangers of skin cancer.
“Because we are only blessed with one life, we must take every precaution so we can live long, healthy lives,” said Thomas. “I was very happy to see so many people getting checked and getting information on this serious disease.”
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States; one million new cases are diagnosed every year. When diagnosed early, skin cancer has a 96 percent cure rate. Attendees learned who is susceptible to skin cancer and how to look for troublesome skin defects. Dermatologists were on hand to complete spot checks. There were also sunscreen samples and brochures to take home in order to learn more about skin cancer.
Sen. Thomas authored a resolution to recognize Skin Cancer Awareness Day and to honor the organizations so involved in making the event possible.
The Georgia Society of Dermatologists, established in May 1958, is a statewide association, with a current membership of over 160 physicians that strive to enhance the quality of human life by supporting an environment in which dermatologists can provide the highest quality of care.
The Atlanta Dermatological Association is made up of dermatologists practicing in the greater Atlanta area that are dedicated to promoting the highest possible standards of clinical practice, education, and research in dermatologic medicine, surgery, and related disciplines. They promote the public interest relating to dermatology and provide a forum for the discussion of medical and practice-related problems.
The Skin Cancer Awareness Network (SCAN) Foundation was founded in 2006 to create public awareness of the dangers of excessive and/or unprotected direct exposure to the sun. Their mission is to educate people about preventive safety measures to avoid or lessen the chances of developing melanoma or one of the other preventable skin cancers through community events.
To learn more about skin cancer and to find information about upcoming events through the SCAN foundation, please visit www.scanfoundation.com.
Sen. Don Thomas serves as chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee. He represents the 54th Senate District, which includes Murray and Whitfield counties and portions of Catoosa and Gordon counties. He may be reached by phone at 404-656-6436 or by e-mail at don.thomas@senate.ga.gov.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
March 24, 2010
For Information Contact:
Natalie Strong, Deputy Director
Katie Wright, Communications Associate
katie.wright@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028