Office of the Governor
- Press Office| FOR RELEASE Thursday, April 29, 2004 |
CONTACT: Dan Hopkins - 303-866-6324 Sarah Bramwell- 303-866-6323 |
(DENVER) – Gov. Bill Owens joined prominent dermatologists today in urging Coloradans to take proper measures to protect against overexposure to the sun.
“Every year in Colorado, about 700 invasive melanomas are diagnosed and about 120 people die of the disease. Given how treatable this cancer is in its early stages, this is tragic. With early detection and treatment, even the most dangerous forms of skin cancer are curable,” said Owens.
Dr. Greg Papadeas, a local dermatologist and past president of the Colorado Dermatologic Society, emphasized that Coloradans are at increased risk for skin cancer.
“In Colorado, the sun shines over 300 days a year. We’re also at very high altitude, which means that we are exposed to more ultraviolet rays. What’s more, we are a very recreation-oriented state. All of these factors contribute to the high incidence of skin cancer in Colorado,” Papadeas said.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. Incidence rates for melanoma, the most serious and potentially deadly form of skin cancer, are significantly higher in Colorado than in the U.S. as a whole. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reported that the melanoma incidence rate among Colorado men was 38 percent higher than the national rate, and for Colorado women, 46 percent higher.
Gov. Owens signed a proclamation to kick off Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month. Also in attendance were Dr. Rene Gonzalez, Director of the Skin Cancer Research Clinic at the University of Colorado, and Hope Dobias, a melanoma survivor.
The best methods for skin-cancer prevention are: 1) liberal and frequent use of sunblock of SPF 15 or higher; 2) use of protective clothing, such as a broad-brimmed hat, long sleeves, and pants; and 3) avoidance of the “high sun,” from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Recognition of changes in the skin is the best way to detect early melanoma, which typically begins as a mottled, light brown to black blemish that is asymmetrical. Anyone who notices a change in a mole, or a new mole, should consult a doctor immediately.
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last modified May 12, 2004
