CDA 100 Year
Historic Timeline
For a century, the Canadian Dermatology Association has been at the forefront of bringing together and supporting Canada’s dermatologists, advancing dermatologic care, education, and advocacy in Canada. This timeline takes you on a journey through a century of significant events, milestones, achievements, transformations, and innovations that have shaped the organization and the field of dermatology over the past 100 years. Explore our rich history and the foundation of our future.
Inter-Urban Dermatological Society
Conceived over a bottle of Old Parr by Drs. Gordon Campbell, Omar Wilson, E.J. Trow, and W.R. Jaffrey, the Inter-Urban Dermatological Society was officially formed on May 26, in London, Ontario. During the inaugural meeting, a motion was passed stating: “That the medical men present at this meeting shall form a body to be known as ‘The Inter-Urban Dermatological Society.’” The Society held its first official meeting in Montreal on June 11–12, 1926.
Senear-Usher Syndrome (pemphigus erythematodes)
Dr. Barney Usher was the first Canadian dermatologist to have his name eponymously attached to a disease entity.
British Association of Dermatology and Syphilology (Canadian Branch)
At their second annual meeting on May 8, the Inter-Urban Dermatological Society agreed to affiliate with the British Association of Dermatology and Syphilology (BADS), officially to be known thereafter as Canadian Branch of the BADS.
Clouston Syndrome
Finding many cases of ectodermal defect in his community, Dr. Howard Ray Clouston’s research investigations led to a paper entitled, “An Hereditary Ectodermal Dystrophy” that was published in the July issue of the Canadian Medical Association Journal. A second paper was published in 1938, entitled “The Major Forms of Hereditary Ectodermal Dysplasia”.
First Canadian Female Dermatologist
Dr. Mary Eliza Scoffield became Canada’s first female dermatologist. After earning her medical degree in 1933 and completing her internship at Victoria General Hospital in London, Ontario, she pursued specialized dermatology training in New York. Upon completing the six-month program, Dr. Scoffield returned to London, Ontario, where she practiced dermatology from 1935 to 1941. She later transitioned to public health, serving as physician-in-charge of Health Services for the London Public School Board.
Joining the ILDS
On November 20, Dr. Svend Lomholt, Secretary of the International Congress of Dermatology, invited the Canadian Chapter to consider a proposal to form an International League of Dermatology. He wrote, “Once the league is created on a universal basis, we hope to occupy ourselves with other problems of international interest.”
Canadian Medical Association, Section on Dermatology
On April 8, the Canadian Branch of the British Association of Dermatology and Syphilology was approved to represent and promote the dermatology specialty at future meetings.
Sulzberger-Garbe Disease
Named after Dr. William Garbe for his publication on “Exudative Discoid and Lichenoid Chronic Dermatosis” that was co-authored with Dr. Marion Sulzberger in the Archives of Dermatology.
Recognition by an Act of Parliament
The Act of Incorporation of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada was amended to permit certification of six groups of specialists, one of which was dermatology and syphilology.
World War II
Drs. Donald Mitchell and H.A. Dixon acted as dermatological consultants to the Canadian Navy and Army, respectively. Drs. Harold Orr and Donald Williams were appointed as consultants in veneral disease control in Canada. Additionally, Drs. Andrew Davidson and E.A. Archibald played key roles in refining the PULHEMS system for categorizing military recruits. They also enhanced the efficiency of regimental and medical officers in caring for dermatological disorders by developing a specialized handbook.
Canadian Dermatological Association
On June 13 in Jasper, Alberta, the Canadian Branch passed a motion to continue its affiliation with the British association, but to now be known as the Canadian Dermatological Association and to adopt its own constitution.
Department of National Defence Responds to 1946 Resolution for Proper Dermatology Care in the Armed Forces
“I am very pleased to report that in any future Mobilization Staff Tables which may be prepared for a Field Force, it will be laid down that 1.4% of all medical officers will be Dermatological Specialists and .8% of all medical officers will be specialists in Venereal Diseases. Thus, 2.2% of all medical officers of the Field Force will be specialists or graded specialists in the diseases which interest your Association”, signed by Brigadier W.L. Coke, Director General of Medical Services.
Women in Dermatology
Drs. Ricky Schachter, Lila Redmond and Paula Schopflocher were the first three women to receive their certification in dermatology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. In 1978, Dr. Ricky Schachter also became the first woman President of the Canadian Dermatological Association.
Canadian Medical Association’s 85th President
Dr. Harold Orr became the first dermatologist to serve as President of the Canadian Medical Association.
Barney Usher Research Award in Dermatology
Originally established as the Research Aid Award in Dermatology, this prize was renamed in 1972 to honor Barney Usher, the driving force behind its creation. The award was introduced to encourage dermatological research among young physicians. The inaugural award was presented in 1958 to Dr. Robert Jackson for his article, “The Histological Findings in Normal Skin and Superficial Epitheliomatosis Treated with Demecolcine.”
The CDA Logo
Orchestrated by a committee chaired by Dr. William Garbe, the original, unilingual crest was selected from designs submitted by students at the Ontario College of Art and by association members. The decision was made in Banff during the 35th annual meeting.
Award of Merit
This award was established to recognize CDA members for their leadership and professional contributions in clinical and research activities, teaching, organizational and administration, and/or community services. The first recipient was Dr. Lemeul Ereaux.
Standardizing Dermatology Qualifications in Canada
In a pivotal 1961 meeting with the Royal College, led by Drs. Gibson Craig and Roy Forsey, the CDA successfully advocated for standardized training requirements for the Fellowship examination in Dermatology in the future, as well as both the Certification and Fellowship examinations during the interim period. They also secured a commitment to place major control in the hands of dermatologists. Their motions were approved with minor modifications by the Royal College’s Credentials Committee, Committee on Examinations, and Council in June 1961. Beginning in 1965, all candidates for dermatology examinations were required to complete training in accordance with the revised requirements.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Known as the Father of Benzoyl Peroxide, Dr. William Pace revolutionized the treatment of acne and is acknowledged internationally for this therapeutic innovation. Dr. Pace also introduced benzoyl peroxide lotion as a treatment for decubitus ulcers, a condition for which at the time there were few therapeutic choices.
CDA’s 50th Anniversary
Before the sequential renumbering all of the annual meetings, this milestone was celebrated in context of the Canadian Dermatological Association’s 20th anniversary at Jasper Park Lodge in Alberta. A special three panel display highlighting all of these years was displayed, and following an out-of-doors aboriginal dance performance and the presentation of a magnificent feather head dress, Dr. Lemuel Ereaux (considered the ‘Canadian Ambassador of Dermatology’ by many colleagues) was made an honorary chief of the Sarcee Indian Tribe. By this milestone year, the association had grown from its original 11 members to 140.
Canada Marks its 100th Anniversary
Dr. Arthur Birt receives the commemorative Centennial Medal in recognition of his contributions to dermatology. Recipients were Canadians recommended by governments and professional, educational and cultural associations, as well as military and protective services, veterans’ groups, sports associations, and philanthropic and charitable bodies, for having provided valuable service to Canada.
CDF Founded
Rising from a need to fund critical research in dermatology in Canada, the Canadian Dermatological Association agreed in 1968 to underwrite the cost of setting up a Canadian Dermatological Foundation, including the incorporation and the cost of establishing the foundation as a charitable organization (completed 1971). From the first grant of $368 issued in 1969, the Foundation has now granted over $10 million.
Joint Meeting with the Mexican Academy of Dermatology
March 6–11, Mexico City, Mexico
This landmark meeting combined a robust educational program with an unforgettable cultural experience. Attendees enjoyed a sound and light show at Teotihuacan, a performance by the renowned Ballet Folklórico, and a reception hosted at the residence of the Canadian Ambassador to Mexico.
Standardizing Dermatology Across Canada
With unified examinations set to begin at the Royal College, the association nominated Dr. W D Stewart as the first Chairman of the English Examining Board, and Dr. J M Giroux as the first Chairman of the French Examining Board, for the dermatology specialty. This focus on education also prompted a one-day Seminar on Undergraduate Teaching in Dermatology in Montreal that resulted in the development of a core curriculum recommendation for undergraduate education in dermatology across Canada one year later.
CDA Bulletin
In October 1975, the first issue of the CDA Bulletin was published under the name “Tusarutiit”, the Inuit word for “newsletter,” under the direction of Dr. Don Rosenthal, Editor-in-Chief. After this inaugural issue, the publication was renamed the CDA Journal until November 1996, when it officially became the CDA Bulletin. In its print format, the CDA Bulletin was published three times a year, made possible by the support of benefactor Mr. Lou Vogel, founder of Canderm. Since 2013, the publication has transitioned to a monthly electronic format.
Birt-Hogg-Dubé Syndrome
This condition is named after Dr. Arthur Birt and two colleagues who identified a rare autosomal dominant inherited condition, also known as fibrofolliculoma.
Joint Meeting with the Irish Dermatological Society
April 30 – May 4, Dublin, Ireland
In addition to the educational program, delegates and guests enjoyed a tour of the National Gallery of Ireland, a sightseeing tour of Dublin followed by a performance of Desire Under the Elms at the Abbey Theatre, and a scenic excursion to Glendalough.
Canada Bids to Host the 1987 WCD
Canada’s bid to host the 1987 World Congress of Dermatology fell short by just two votes, losing to West Berlin’s compelling campaign, which highlighted the opportunity to celebrate the city’s 750th anniversary.
Dermatologic Surgery Recognized
The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada formally incorporated surgery into the dermatology training curriculum, recognizing it as an essential component of the specialty.
Canadian Professors of Dermatology
The inaugural meeting of the Canadian Professors of Dermatology took place on June 29 in Ottawa, focusing on budgets, teaching, research, and future initiatives. With the motto “Promoting excellence in dermatology through teaching and research,” the society has since developed a national dermatology core curriculum and core competencies tool (2012). It also administers DRIVE, a practice examination program for dermatology residents, and BoSS, a basic science course for all dermatology residents, while awarding prizes for the best resident presentations, both oral and poster, at the Canadian Dermatology Association’s annual conference.
Dermatology Update
Founded by Dr. Stuart Maddin, this yearly program continues today to bring together dermatologists and industry in a unique learning forum to discuss new drug classes and therapeutic advances.
New Constitution and New Name
Following the passing of a Members’ Resolution to federally incorporate under the Canada Corporations Act, the association submitted an application and a new constitution to the Government of Canada under its bilingual name: Canadian Dermatology Association and Association canadienne de dermatologie.
Dr Stuart Maddin named ILDS Secretary-General
Dr. Stuart Maddin became the first Canadian elected as Secretary-General of the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS), serving from 1987 to 1992. During his tenure, he played a key role in founding the International Dermatology Foundation, which supports dermatology education and research in dermatology in third world countries.
Birth of BoNTA
Drs. Jean and Alastair Carruthers inadvertently discovered the cosmetic properties in a toxin normally used by ophthalmologists. This chance finding has led to many new medical treatment options for patients.
Sun Protection Program Launched
The CDA introduced the Sun Protection Program, an educational initiative that includes a recognition statement still used today by sunscreen manufacturers to help Canadians identify broad-spectrum sunscreens meeting the association’s standards. The statement is licensed for use through a fee, which supports the CDA’s Sun Awareness Program and other parallel public education initiatives.
Rare Books Collection
Expanded facilities were secured for the collection and safekeeping of rare books gifted to the association. The oldest book in today’s library is a UK pharmacopoeias from 1773.
Canadian Society for Dermatologic Surgery
Formation of the Canadian Society for Dermatologic Surgery was the brainchild of Drs Sheldon Pollack and Alastair Carruthers, who went on to found the society with 33 members on June 28. The Society, incorporated in January 1992, continues to provide continuing education and promote the surgical interests of its members. The Society is also a proud member of the ILDS.
Canadian Society of Investigative Dermatology
Founded by three well-established Canadian dermatology researchers, Drs. Daniel Sauder, Kowichi Jimbow, and David McLean, the Society’s mission is to advance and promote the sciences relevant to skin health and disease through education, advocacy, and scholarly exchange of scientific information within Canada and to bridge with other investigative dermatologic societies around the world.
Joint Meeting with the British Association of Dermatologists
July 7 – 10, Oxford, England
This coming together was further highlighted by a “Celebration of Dermatology” in the new Oxford Department of Dermatology building at the Churchill Hospital. Social events included a BBQ at the President’s home with English Morris dancing, and a reception at the Oxford University Museum to enjoy architectural and archaeological treasures.
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery
First issue of the Canadian Dermatology Association’s official publication was released in July under the guidance of Dr. Daniel Sauder, Editor-in-Chief. Each peer reviewed issue features content of interest for both researchers and clinicians. This publication is also the official journal for the Canadian Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
President’s Cup
Started by then CDA President, Dr. Howard Cohen, the cup is presented annually to a member who has been of particular assistance to the President or the association in the past year, making a significant contribution to the association. The first recipient was Dr. Jason Rivers.
National Survey on Sun Exposure and Protection
On May 7th, the results of the most comprehensive Canadian survey on sun exposure and protection, and the first in the world to look at an entire country, were released. Largely funded by the CDA, the National Cancer Institute, and Environment Canada, the study revealed over one-half of all Canadians did not adequately protect themselves from the sun. Dermatologist Dr. Jason Rivers and fellow researchers designed the survey to provide information for developing policies and programs about sun safety.
Dr. Ricky Schachter Receives the Order of Canada
Dr. Schachter was invested as a member of the Order of Canada on February 4. Dr. Schachter was a researcher, teacher, administrator, and healer whose work in the areas of skin cancer and psoriasis has improved the lives of her patients and inspired fellow researchers across Canada. Dr. Schachter was the first woman head of an academic division of dermatology in Canada and the first president of both the Canadian and Toronto Dermatological Associations. In recognition of her contributions, a renowned Toronto dermatology centre was created in her name. Long a proponent of women’s rights and health care, she has initiated many outstanding programs in Ontario and other parts of the country.
Public Education Awards
Launched to recognize excellence in dermatologic education by media, not-for-profit, and industry initiatives, the first recipients were Norma Lee MacLeod and Susan Allen of CBC Newsworld for a special series on melanoma, Dr. Jerry Shapiro of the Canadian Hair Research Foundation for health awareness relating to hair loss, and Diane St. Louis of Galderma for their Rosacea Awareness Program.
CMA’s 135th President
Dr. Dana Hanson was the second dermatologist to be elected to this office. Some of the issues pursued by Dr. Hanson during his presidency were physician workforce shortages, physician health and well-being, and health promotion. Dr. Hanson’s term of office also coincided with the federal Commission on the Future of Health Care in Canada, headed by former Saskatchewan Premier Roy Romanow, whose report was to be released later that year.
Canada Bids to Host the 2007 WCD
In the final moments for all bidding countries to put forward their reasons why they should host the next World Congress of Dermatology, Canada’s victory was lost to a visually heartening illumination of the Congress’ absence from the southern hemisphere. The Canadians were pleased to congratulate the Argentines for being the first ever to bring the WCD to South America.
Young Dermatologists’ Volunteer Award
Launched to recognize outstanding volunteer medical and dermatological services to the community by young Canadian dermatologists who are in private practice, the first recipient of this award was Dr. Joël Claveau for his commitment to public education on skin cancer risks.
Award of Honour
Established to recognize excellence in either personal contributions or service to advancing medical research, medical education, healthcare delivery, or healthcare education for either Canadians or the medical professions, the Award of Honour is the highest award that can be bestowed upon a non-medical person by the Canadian Dermatology Association. The first recipients of this award were Mr. Richard MacKay of Stiefel Canada and Mr. Louis Vogel of Canderm Canada.
Vitiligo Area Scoring Index
Drs. Iltefat Hamzavi, Hem Jain, David McLean, Jerry Shapiro, Haishan Zeng, and Harvey Lui develop the first standardized quantitative measure of the effectiveness of treating vitiligo. The tool is a simple scale that allows patients and clinicians to speak a common language when discussing how vitiligo will respond to treatment.
Edwin Brown – CDA Endowment Research Grant
The late Mr. Edwin Alan Brown, a resident from Niagara Falls, bequeathed to the CDA $320,000 for “research directed to investigating and finding a cure for skin diseases.”. An endowment grant, administered by the CDF, was established in his name. The first grant was awarded to Dr. Gilles Lauzon for “Death receptor ligand-induced apoptosis in squamous cell carcinoma; regulatory roles of the adhesion molecule E-cadherin and of sphingosine kinase”.
Resident and Fellow Society
Established by three dermatology residents, Drs. Ben Barankin, Anatoli Freiman, and Adam Natsheh, the society provides residents and fellows a forum to network, to seek out opportunities for further specialization, and to recognize teaching excellence in their dermatology programs.
The Launch of the DRIVE Program
In 2005, Dr. Ben Barankin, then a dermatology resident, founded the Dermatology Residents Innovation & Vision in Education (DRIVE) program to support final-year (PGY-5) Canadian dermatology residents in preparing for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada Certification Exam in Dermatology. Over the years, DRIVE has become an integral part of Canadian dermatology residency training, evolving into a key national educational initiative that involves every future Canadian dermatologist. Now operating under the Canadian Professors of Dermatology (CPD), DRIVE continues to play a vital role in resident education, professional development, and exam preparation.
Dr. David McLean Named ILDS Secretary-General
The second Canadian to be elected to this position, Dr. McLean’s term of office ran from 2007 to 2011. Dr. McLean was instrumental in bringing the Republic of Mali’s national dermatological training project for para-health workers to the attention of the Canadian Dermatology Association, which continues to financially support this program today.
Canadian Skin Patient Alliance
Supported by Canadian dermatologists, the Canadian Dermatology Association was a key player in providing seed money to launch this not-for-profit patient organization. The Alliance provides balanced, vetted information, support, and advocacy for skin patients and their families.
Dr. Dana Hanson Elected President of the World Medical Association
Dr. Hanson was the first Canadian in four decades to be elected to this position. During his presidency, Dr. Hanson focused on advocacy, both for patients and physicians, and on health and the environment.
Canada Wins Bid to Host the 2015 WCD
Third-time lucky, a successful campaign to bring the World Congress of Dermatology to Canada was finally achieved by Drs. Jerry Shapiro and Harvey Lui.
Opening of the Dr. Robert Jackson Library
A permanent home for the association’s many books was established at the CDA’s national office. In celebration, the library was named after CDA’s archivist and historian, who had committed many years to their assembly and care during the association’s Ottawa annual conference.
Skin Health Program Launched
Led by an expert advisory board, this education initiative provides a recognition statement that helps Canadians identify products that have a low potential for irritation and do not contain the most common allergens. Use of the statement is made available through a license fee, which in turn is used to support further education activities.
Dr. Harvey Lui Named Next ILDS President
On February 1, it was announced Dr. Harvey Lui was elected President-Elect. Dr. Lui will be nominated for President during the first meeting of the new Board of Directors taking place after the Ordinary General Meeting during the WCD. Dr. Lui was President of the Canadian Dermatology Association from 2005 to 2006 and is Secretary-General for the Vancouver 2015 WCD Bid Committee.
Launch of the JCMS Author Interviews Podcast Series
Under the leadership of the JCMS Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Kirk Barber, the CDA launched its first-ever podcast series, JCMS Author Interviews. This initiative has brought expert voices directly to listeners, offering in-depth discussions on cutting-edge dermatologic research.
Since its debut, the podcast has attracted over 36,000 listens, providing an accessible platform for knowledge-sharing. From 2018 to 2021 it also provided members an opportunity to earn Section 3 Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, further enhancing its educational value. The success of this series underscores the CDA’s commitment to innovation in medical education and to engaging its community through new digital formats.
Launch of the Dermalogues Podcast Series
Under the leadership of CDA Past President Dr. Kerri Purdy, the CDA launched its second podcast series, Dermalogues, in 2019, a podcast designed for dermatology residents. This engaging series connects listeners with Canada’s leading dermatologists, offering expert insights and answers to pressing questions from residents.
Since its debut, Dermalogues has garnered over 106,000 listens and holds an impressive 4.9/5 rating on Apple Podcasts, reinforcing its value within the dermatology community. Adding a personal touch, the podcast’s hand-drawn logo was created by Dr. Noelle Wong, a CDA member and dermatology resident at the time. Her artwork remains a recognizable symbol of the podcast’s commitment to education, mentorship, and professional growth in dermatology.
COVID-19 Pandemic (2020–2022): Impact on Dermatologic Care
The pandemic significantly shifts dermatologic care, with widespread clinic closures accelerating the adoption of telemedicine and virtual consultations. Dermatologists encountered new COVID-related skin conditions, such as “COVID Toes”, and addressed the dermatologic effects of prolonged PPE use, including “Maskne” (mask-induced acne), contact dermatitis from masks, gloves, and sanitizers, and hair loss among recovering patients.
The CDA swiftly established a COVID Task Force, bringing together dermatologists from across Canada to provide guidance and resources to its members. The association also expanded its digital education initiatives, hosting its first-ever virtual Annual Conference, along with webinars and online resources to support both dermatologists and the public.
CDA Releases Its Advocacy Platform (2024)
CDA formally launches an advocacy platform outlining recommendations to address the shortage of dermatologists and improve access to dermatologic care across Canada. The platform highlights issues such as wait times and the need for better funding for specialized care. As CDA continues to build momentum, the focus remains on driving meaningful policy changes, fostering collaborations, and ensuring that all Canadians have equitable access to dermatologic care in the years ahead.
Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi Becomes 3rd Dermatologist Elected CMA President
In December 2024, Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi was elected as President-Elect (2025–26) of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), becoming only the third dermatologist to hold this prestigious role. A dedicated leader and advocate, Dr. Ogunyemi’s election reflects the growing impact of dermatology in shaping national healthcare policies and improving access to care for all Canadians.
CDA Celebrates Its 100th Anniversary
In 2025, the CDA marks a historic milestone: 100 years of excellence in dermatology. For a century, the CDA has been dedicated to bringing together and supporting Canada’s dermatologists, advancing patient care, and advocating for skin health across Canada. This landmark year is celebrated with special events, commemorative initiatives, and a look back at the organization’s incredible journey. The 100th Anniversary logo serves as a symbol of the CDA’s legacy and ongoing commitment to the future of dermatology.
Here’s to 100 years!