July 8, 2024 — The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) and the International Society of Dermatology (ISD) will inaugurate the first official World Skin Health Day. The event aims to promote awareness and action towards achieving “Skin Health for All,” with activities planned worldwide. CeraVe, a key partner, will spotlight new survey data and amplify the voices of dermatology changemakers as part of this global initiative.
The Need for Increased Skin Health Awareness
Timed to coincide with World Skin Health Day, CeraVe released survey findings that highlight the urgent need for increased skin health education and the barriers preventing American adults from receiving adequate care. Conducted among 1,000 US adults, the survey revealed that while 80% experience skin concerns, 1 in 4 suffer from more serious conditions. Despite this, only 40% reported visiting a dermatologist annually for a skin check.
The survey underscored several barriers to dermatological care:
- 27% of respondents cited long wait times.
- 20% mentioned a lack of insurance.
- 18% pointed to the limited availability of dermatologists.
Additionally, one-third of Americans reported they cannot afford dermatological care. More than half (54%) visit general healthcare providers for skin health issues, indicating a significant gap in specialized care.
CeraVe’s Commitment to Skin Health
To address these challenges, CeraVe has become the first official corporate partner of World Skin Health Day. Leveraging its extensive network of dermatologists, CeraVe supports ILDS and ISD in their mission. As part of this collaboration, CeraVe is sponsoring events across North America, Argentina, Malta, Tanzania, Nepal, and Australia. These initiatives focus on educating the public about the importance of equitable skincare access and connecting dermatologists with patients in need.
Six Regional Events: Spotlight on Global Initiatives
Six dedicated events will be conducted across different regions:
- Malta: Free dermatological consultations and treatments will be provided to displaced and vulnerable populations at migrant centers, supported by cultural mediators and migrant NGOs.
- Tanzania: A 10-day Skin Cancer Prevention Program will be launched in Mbeya, focusing on providing dermatological services to individuals with albinism at the Mbeya Regional Referral Hospital and various clinics throughout the region.
- Canada: A clinic will host an educational session on skincare for teenagers and pre-teens, offering guidance and free dermatologist-approved products to parents and children. This will be followed by an online forum targeting general practitioners.
- Australia: An online patient group forum led by dermatologist Stephen Schumack, OAM, FACD, will discuss global barriers to dermatological care, the financial burden of skin diseases, and the associated stigma. Insights from this forum will contribute to a report on the impact of skin diseases on patients.
- Nepal: A national campaign will include outreach clinics for vulnerable populations, educational programs for teachers and healthcare workers, stakeholder meetings, and a medical education session in Kathmandu.
- Argentina: San Martín de los Andes Hospital in Patagonia will host free consultations and educational sessions for patients, healthcare workers, students, and children. Dermatologists from Argentina and neighboring countries will participate.
In the United States, CeraVe has mobilized dermatologists to become “Derm Changemakers” by offering free skin checks in local communities. Through its partnership with the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, CeraVe is welcoming dermatologists to participate in select clinics nationwide on July 8. This effort aims to make skincare more accessible to underserved patients and communities.
Statements from ILDS and ISD Leaders
Professor Henry Lim, President of the ILDS, emphasized the pervasive impact of skin diseases, affecting approximately 1.8 billion people with over 3,000 different conditions. He highlighted the dual burden of these diseases on individuals and public health systems, advocating for increased awareness and improved access to dermatological care.
“World Skin Health Day is a vital opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for higher standards of care and accessibility,” Lim said.
Dr. Nellie Konnikov, President of the ISD, reflected on the decade-long history of World Skin Health Day, which has reached over 42 million people and provided essential care to more than 190,000 patients in over 50 countries. She encouraged continued participation and contribution to the initiative, highlighting the ongoing need for global skin health awareness and action.
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