The Impact of the 2023 World Skin Health Day Campaign
12 Feb 2024
Burundi (2022 - 2023): Tanzania Society for Dermatovenereology (TASOD) partnered with Albinism Sans Frontiere (ASF) to establish a national database tracking albinism and skin cancer cases. This project improved care for albino patients in Burundi and included outreach clinics, workshops, and Albinism Associations.
Indonesia (November 2022 - March 2023): Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) collaborated with photographer Yoppy Pieter to create an exhibition and a symposium on the impact of leprosy. The exhibition reached a global audience, shedding light on the health and psychosocial burden of leprosy.
Brazil (December 2023): The Brazilian Society of Dermatology launched the "Orange December" campaign, reaching an estimated 5 million people, including 19,000 free skin consultations. The campaign focused on skin cancer awareness and prevention via a multimedia campaign.
Turkey (11 May 2023): The Dermatovenerology Association of Turkey hosted a Skin Cancer Prevention Clinic, impacting high-risk groups. They provided free skin examinations and emphasised the importance of early detection.
Philippines (November 2023): The Philippine Academy of Dermatologic Surgery Foundation Inc. conducted a medical mission in General Mariano Alvarez Cavite. They provided free dermatologic consultations, surgeries, and medications while enhancing skin health awareness.
Australia (4th to 10th November 2023): Australasian College of Dermatologists hosted "7 Days of Skin Health," educating the public about dermatological health and offering practical advice, impacting a wide audience.
Malawi (April 2023): DERMALAWI conducted a surgical campaign, impacting 2,317 patients. They addressed various dermatological issues, implemented a menstrual management program, and made orthopaedic shoes for patients with physical impairments.
Sri Lanka (2023): Sri Lanka College of Dermatologists established a leishmaniasis registry, aiming to improve detection. They also conducted public awareness programs and workshops, impacting 400 neglected tropical and mitigating the spread of the disease.
Malawi (Jan - May 2023): Standing Voice addressed the skin cancer crisis among people with albinism in southern Malawi, impacting 366 patients. They provided consultations, sunscreen, protective clothing, and health education, greatly improving well-being.
Guinea (23 - 31 January 2023): Gamal Abdel Nasser University provided free skin checks and treatment to low-resource communities, impacting 900 patients. They also hosted workshops during their online conference.
Lebanon (25 May – 2 June 2023): The International Foundation for Dermatology and Bridges2Health&Rights led a mission targeting skin and sexual health, impacting 417 patients. They also addressed healthcare deficiencies, particularly in women's health and the plight of Syrian refugees.
Philippines (April 2023): The Philippine Academy of Dermatologic Surgery Foundation Inc. conducted a medical mission on Lubang Island, impacting 500 residents. They provided free dermatologic consultations, surgeries, and medications while enhancing skin health awareness.
Brazil (October 2023): The Brazilian Society of Dermatology initiated a Psoriasis Awareness campaign, reaching 5 million people. The campaign tackled prejudice, emphasised psychological support, and highlighted the importance of diet and physical activity.
France (September 2023): The French Society of Dermatology conducted a patient-focused initiative and a roundtable discussion, engaging 120 stakeholders. This approach emphasised patient empowerment and advancements in treatment.
Tanzania (2023): Regional Dermatology Training Centre (RDTC) provided extensive dermatological care to over 16,000 patients, focusing on atopic dermatitis and acne. Their outreach programs expanded specialised services, enhancing access to treatment.
Greece (17-18 February 2023): The International Society for Research and Education on Congenital and Acquired Skin Diseases held a Skin Cancer and Lymphoma Prevention Clinic. The event provided free examinations and emphasised sun protection and self-examination.
Madagascar (May 2023): Madagascar hosted World Skin Health Day activities and field missions, impacting 239 patients. The program discussed tropical neglected diseases and atopic dermatitis, providing consultations in rural areas.
Nigeria (June 2023): The Nigerian Association of Dermatologists launched a Basic Skin Care Campaign, educating 450 individuals. They provided specialised care to 40 persons with albinism and treated approximately 300 patients.
Chile (November 2023): The Chilean Society of Dermatology and Venereology launched a comprehensive Skin Cancer Prevention Campaign, educating 2 million Chileans on self-screening and prevention.
Brazil (January 2023): The Brazilian Society of Dermatology held a "Purple January" leprosy awareness campaign, reaching 3 million people. The campaign featured educational videos and promoted free treatment for early disease detection.
Get Involved in WSHD 2024
As we celebrate the successes of WSHD 2023, we warmly invite everyone to be a part of the 2024 World Skin Health Day Campaign. Your involvement can make a significant difference in promoting skin health awareness and accessibility worldwide. To join us, please sign up using the button below. Stay updated on our latest news and activities by following us on social media at @WorldSkinDay.