Olay and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) Announce
“Skin Cancer Takes Friends” FREE Skin Cancer Screenings
National Campaign during May’s Skin Cancer Awareness Teams Up with Actress, Kim Raver
to Help Encourage Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention
www.skincancertakesfriends.org
Cincinnati, May 1, 2009– In recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month this May, Olay and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) announce “Skin Cancer Takes Friends,” a nationwide free skin cancer screening program that encourages Americans to bring their friends to a participating dermatologic surgeon’s office for a free skin cancer screening. Together with Kim Raver, star of “Lipstick Jungle” and “24,” Olay and the ASDS are working to raise awareness about the importance of prevention and detection in the fight against skin cancer.
More than one million Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year. This is an astounding number given that the cause for the majority of cases is excessive sun exposure. While some people are more at risk than others, anyone, regardless of skin color or age, can develop skin cancer.
Actress Kim Raver has joined the fight against skin cancer based on her personal experiences with the disease. Raver is dedicated to helping spread the word about this worthwhile program, and about the importance of sun protection and regular screenings in the fight against skin cancer.
“Having lost someone to melanoma, I’ve seen first-hand how serious skin cancer can be. Early detection can truly save lives,” says the actress. “I’m so fortunate to have an opportunity to speak out about a cause for which I am truly passionate. I encourage everyone to schedule regular screenings and wear SPF 15 or higher every day.”
Someone dies of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, nearly every hour. Yet when detected and treated early, the five year survival rate is almost 100 percent. Women ages 20-29 are particularly vulnerable, with melanoma ranking as the second most common form of cancer in the age group. Often the symptoms of skin cancer are elusive to those who do not know what to look for. As the incidence of skin cancer continues to rise, Olay and the ASDS urge men and women to join the fight against this growing silent killer by sharing these shocking statistics with loved ones, conducting monthly self-screenings and scheduling a free screening with a dermatologic surgeon for themselves and a friend. Regular screenings combined with daily protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays are essential to avoid falling victim to melanoma.
“Too few Americans understand the importance of getting regular screenings from a dermatologic surgeon. A dermatologic surgeon can identify and treat the disease in its earliest stages, and potentially save lives,” says Robert Weiss, M.D., President of the ASDS. “During last year’s Skin Cancer Takes Friends program, more than 300 dermatologic surgeons in 200 cities across 45 states performed almost 10,000 free screenings. This year we are making it our goal to surpass 10,000 screenings. Everyone,
even those with no family history of skin cancer, is at risk for this disease and should have an annual screening.”
To find a dermatologic surgeon offering free screenings in your area, visit www.skincancertakesfriends.org
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