BCHC To Host Skin Cancer Public Presentation

The month of May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness month and Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre will host a public presentation on skin cancer in Bermuda.

BCHC said, “On May 25th, join Dr. Jonathan Schoenfeld, Radiation Oncology Director of the Melanoma Disease Center at Dana Farber/Brigham and Women’s Cancer Center as he talks on skin cancer in Bermuda. The presentation will be held at Argus in their Spirit of Bermuda and Deliverance Room. A panel discussion where audience attendees can ask questions of their choice.

“Dr. Schoenfeld’s research focuses on the design and implementation of clinical, epidemiologic and translational studies in head and neck skin cancers. He is actively evaluating immunologic effects of radiation therapy and exploring treatments combining radiation with novel immune oncology agents. His epidemiologic research has been featured in the New York Times, The PBS NewsHour, and the Washington Post.

“Taking place each May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month provides a reminder to everyone that skin cancer is primarily a lifestyle disease; knowing the risk factors and warning signs, and practicing sun protection are all crucial to reducing your risk.

“Fast Facts:

• Skin cancer is very common. Bermuda has a 12% higher incidence rate than the United States.

• Most skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. In fact, 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to Ultraviolet [UV] radiation from the sun.

• Early detection is key. Skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early, but can become disfiguring, and even deadly, if allowed to grow.

“Lowering Skin Cancer Incidence in Bermuda

“Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre is pleased to announce that it has collaborated with the Bermuda Weather Service in order to purchase and operate Kipp & Zonen’s UV radiometer equipment, which is a highly valued asset for the Island of Bermuda. Never before have real-time UVI readings of this accuracy been available in Bermuda.”

James Dodgson, Acting Director at Bermuda Weather Service, said “The UVI is a major tool in assisting people to protect themselves to prevent skin cancer.” The UVI readings can be found on www.weather.bm.

“The UVI reading provides us with a scale that measures UV Radiation from the sun, the major source of radiation that causes skin cancer, cataracts and other illnesses. The values of the index range from zero to 11+. The higher the UVI number, the greater the potential for damage to the skin and eyes, and the less time it takes for damage to occur.

To RSVP for the event please call 236-1001 or email events@chc.bm.

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