GlobalSkin Launches International Movement for Eczema Sufferers on First Ever Awareness Day

Today, the global eczema community unites to observe the first-ever Atopic Eczema Day to raise awareness and understanding of eczema and atopic dermatitis. Atopic Eczema Day brings together those affected by eczema or atopic dermatitis to share experiences and future aspirations and drive actions that improve lives all over the world.
To deliver that action, the International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organizations (IADPO), also known as GlobalSkin, is unveiling AltogetherEczema, a new movement to elevate the urgent and unmet needs of the global eczema and atopic dermatitis community. Altogethereczema.org will serve as the central hub for people affected by eczema or atopic dermatitis, as well as patient leaders – providing resources, gathering insights, and seeking to empower collective advocacy.
“The inaugural World Atopic Eczema Day is a long-awaited chance to honor and empower those affected by eczema or atopic dermatitis and, finally, puts their needs in the spotlight,” said Christine Janus, CEO of GlobalSkin. “This community faces a huge range of challenges, whether physical or emotional, every single day. We hope by launching AltogetherEczema, we can kickstart a conversation within the community about what matters most. A clearer understanding of issues and priorities for those living with the condition will ensure that, together, we can work towards meaningful and relevant change.”
Globally, eczema affects up to 20 percent of children and 10 percent of adults. Atopic dermatitis is the most common – and chronic – form of eczema, which, typically, causes patches of dry, itchy skin that may worsen and can erupt into a rash when scratched. But, people also, often, experience a significant, negative impact on their emotional wellbeing – from an inability to sleep to associated feelings of social exclusion and depression or anxiety. It is this hidden, multidimensional burden that needs urgent attention.
AltogetherEczema urges the eczema and atopic dermatitis community to share their story and experiences of life with the condition, as well as their aspirations for the future.  By doing so, the key issues faced globally can be investigated, utilizing shared knowledge and insight to inspire advocacy and  a campaign for change.