Dr. Ben Wiese and Dr. Lize Wiese of the Kelowna Skin Cancer Clinic recently shared that they will be participating in interviews throughout May in recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Their goal is to support community education around sun safety and skin health.
Skin Cancer Education in the Okanagan
As summer approaches, Drs. Ben and Lize Wiese hope to encourage conversations about healthy sun habits and the importance of understanding your own skin. They regularly meet individuals who have questions about their skin cancer risk or concerns about new or changing spots, and they believe that accessible information can help people know when to seek medical guidance.
Why Awareness Matters
Through their clinical work, Dr. Ben Wiese has seen a wide range of skin concerns, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. These experiences have reinforced the importance of early detection and proactive sun protection. This is one of the reasons the doctors chose to speak publicly about skin health and the factors that may increase risk.
During their interviews, they plan to discuss several topics related to skin cancer, including general sun safety practices, what to look for during routine self-checks and how physicians evaluate concerning lesions. They also plan to highlight the value of speaking with a healthcare provider if someone notices a new or changing spot on their skin.
About Dr. Ben Wiese and Dr. Lize Wiese
Drs. Ben and Lize Wiese developed an interest in skin cancer while studying at the University of Pretoria and completing their residency in Kimberley, South Africa. After moving to Kelowna, they saw a need for a dedicated skin-focused practice and opened the Kelowna Skin Cancer Clinic, where assessments and treatments are offered by physician referral.
Dr. Ben Wiese has completed additional training in dermoscopy and primary care skin cancer courses through the Universities of Cardiff and Queensland. He is also completing a Master’s degree in skin cancer at the University of Queensland. Together, Drs. Ben and Lize Wiese continue to focus on education, early detection and patient-centred skin care.
