8/12/08

A volunteer team of dermatologists representing the Women's Dermatologic Society (WDS) will provide free skin cancer screenings for spectators at the Pilot Pen Tennis Tournament, in New Haven, CT, on August 17, 2008.

The New Haven outreach is co-chaired by WDS members and Yale University faculty Mona Gohara, MD, clinical instructor of dermatology, and Sumaira Aasi, MD, assistant professor in dermatology. The pair has organized a volunteer team of fellow New Haven dermatologists to offer the screenings, sun safety education, and free sunscreen to spectators.

In commemoration of the WDS event, New Haven Mayor John DiStefano will declare Sunday, August 17 as "Play Safe in the Sun" Day citywide in support of the importance of skin cancer awareness and sun protection for local citizens.

"On a daily basis, this means applying an ounce (ping-pong ball size amount) of broad-spectrum sunscreen before going outdoors, re-applying every 2 hours, and seeking shade whenever possible," says Aasi. "These principles of sun safety are not limited to sunny days. The sun's harmful rays shine through even under cloudier skies so stay covered, wear your sunscreen, hat. and protective sunglasses."

For more information, visit www.playsafeinthesun.org.

[PR Newswire, August 12, 2008]