OTTAWA, July 9 /CNW Telbec/ - The Canadian Dermatology Association announced the award winners at the President's Banquet held during the 84th Annual Conference in Vancouver on July 4, 2009. The CDA honoured seven winners in the media, industry, not for profit, volunteer and research categories for excellence in the advancement of public education and the science and art of medicine and surgery related to the health of the skin, hair and nails.

The distinguished President's Cup award is given by the CDA president to a CDA member dermatologist who has been of particular assistance to the president and/or the association over the past year and whom the president feels has made a significant contribution to the Association. The 2009 President's Cup was presented to Dr. Elizabeth O'Brien for her immense contribution and leadership in representing dermatology and dermatology residents' interests through the Royal College.

The CDA Young Dermatologists' Volunteer Award recognizes outstanding volunteer medical and dermatologic services to the community by young Canadian dermatologists who are in private practice. The Young Dermatologists' Volunteer Award went to Dr. Vince Bertucci for his continuing work on behalf of the CDA and especially Ontario dermatologists in regards to dermatological surgery regulations.

Other award recipients include: << Media Public Education Awards: ------------------------------ >> Insidermedicine.com - Dr. Susan Sharma, for an innovative web based public education program on a variety of skin related issues which is easily accessible, understandable and accurate.

Glow Magazine - Jill Dunn for her article Good day Sunshine: an excellent, unbiased and well researched article about sunscreens, their composition, mechanisms of action, and their use for photoprotection. The article also discusses practical use of sunscreens and how to choose the best sunscreens for optimal use.

<< Not for Profit Public Education Awards: --------------------------------------- >> A Hat is Where it's At - Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit for its innovative, fun pilot project aimed at promoting sun protection awareness and safety early on for camping children.

Made for Shade - Durham Region Health Department for promoting sun safety for its district residents focusing on shade. It is unique for its partnership with local nurseries in producing the Guide for Creating Shade at Home and distributing it freely to Durham Residents.

<< Industry Public Education Award: -------------------------------- >> PsoriasisConnections.ca - Amgen Canada and Wyeth Pharmaceuticals for the comprehensive, unbiased, and very helpful website focusing on psoriasis for patients and primary care physicians. Information is current and discusses all the treatment options that are available for both limited and severe disease categories.

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 care 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.

-0- 07/09/2009 /For further information: Kristina Murray, Tel: (613) 738-1748, 1-800-267-3376 Ext. 222; French Media: Michelle Albagli, Tel: (613) 738-1748, 1-800-267-3376 Ext. 227/ CO: Canadian Dermatology Association ST: Ontario IN: HEA SU: AWD -30- CNW 14:24e 09-JUL-09