The Canadian Dermatology Association is launching a national Eczema Awareness campaign beginning in September and lasting through the dry winter skin season.

The official campaign launch will take place on September 13 in Iqaluit, Nunavut. Attending the event will be the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Nunavut Minister of Health and Social Services, CDA President Dr Larry Warshawski, and Dr. Robert Jackson of the Ottawa Dermatological Society (ODS). The reason for the launch in Iqaluit is that the ODS will be holding an extraordinary meeting on Baffin Island - the first medical specialist meeting ever held in Nunavut.

Over six million Canadians (1 in 5) are affected by eczema (dermatitis) and CDA's public education campaign is designed to provide eczema sufferers (patients and family members) with important information on how to control and manage the pain, discomfort and embarrassment of eczema.

As the temperature drops outside it brings an increase in eczema triggers like hot showers, wool sweaters and itchy, dry skin. The lower humidity causes the skin to dry out faster.

"Eczema is a common problem in the fall and winter months," advises Dr. Larry Warshawski, president of the Canadian Dermatology Association. "With lower humidity from indoor heating, the skin dries out and becomes irritated faster. That's why winter and fall are critical times for patients to learn how to treat and manage this condition."

The campaign aims to dispel the myth that eczema is contagious, provide information on how to treat and manage eczema, identify common types of eczema and when patients need to see a dermatologist, create awareness of the social and economic impact and emotional consequences of dealing with eczema.

CDA's Eczema Public Education Materials:

• Three Public Service Announcements for radio: Occupational Eczema PSA, Pediatric Eczema PSA and General Information PSA

• Eczema Brochure (in English, French and Inuktitut): available nationally at dermatologists' and health care professionals' offices as well as Public Health Centres in Nunavut, Nunavik and Nunatsiavut (Labrador)

• CDA website, www.dermatology.ca: Eczema Information, Contact Dermatitis information sheet, Eczema in Children information sheet and links to other online resources

About CDA

The Canadian Dermatology Association, founded in 1925, represents Canadian dermatologists. The association exists to advance the science and art of medicine and surgery related to the health 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.

For further information: or to request an interview, please contact: English Media Inquiries: Kristina Murray, (613) 738-1748, 1-800-267-3376, Ext. 222; French Media Inquiries: Michelle Albagli, (613) 738-1748, 1-800-267-3376, Ext. 227, Cell (613) 762-5940