OTTAWA, Nov. 25 /CNW/ – The Canadian Dermatology Association's Media and Public Education Award publicly acknowledges the role played by the media and not-for-profit organizations in furthering the understanding of dermatologic issues and encouraging healthy behaviour in the medical, surgical and cosmetic care of skin, hair and nails.

Diseases of the skin, hair and nails can cause their sufferers numerous symptoms, ranging from embarrassment and depression to sometimes-fatal illnesses.  such diseases can also be so visible that social interaction with others can be as painful as the physical symptoms.  This is why CDA wishes to highlight the role of the media and other organizations that disseminate information to the public, thus increasing awareness of skin disease prevention, where possible, and proper management and treatment of diseases of the skin, hair and nails by Canada's dermatologists.

Eligibility: Entries may be submitted in the following categories:

MediaAll entrants must be journalists or freelance writers/editors/producers working in the print, broadcast or online media. Entries must have been published or broadcast between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010. if an entry comprised a series of articles or programs, the final installment of the article or program must have appeared by December 31, 2010.

Not-for-profit organizationsAll entrants must be not-for-profit organizations or government agencies with original contributions, accomplishments, programs, projects and activities that raise awareness in the field of dermatology. all activities must have been completed by December 31, 2010. Self-nominations are accepted.

IndustryAll entrants must be industry organizations with original programs, projects or activities first implemented between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010. An advertising or public relations agency may nominate a client's program. The CDA Public Education Award will be presented to both the client and the agency.

To Enter: Full details about the award criteria and submission information are available online at dermatology.ca/PEA2011 or by contacting the CDA Head Office at 613 738-1748 / 800 267-3376 or .  Entries must be received by February 7, 2011.  all winners will be notified by June 1, 2011.  The awards will be presented at CDA's annual conference in Edmonton, Alberta on June 25, 2011.

About CDAThe Canadian Dermatology Association, founded in 1925, represents Canada's 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 healthy skin, hair and nails.