Dermatology Societies from Around the World Welcome Milestone WHA Resolution on Skin Diseases
27 May 2025
27 May 2025
Dermatology societies from around the world have welcomed the adoption of the historic resolution ‘Skin Diseases as a Global Public Health Priority’ at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA). Through our global society, ILDS, we now calling on member states, regulators, NGOs, donors and other stakeholders to work together to implement the resolution and transform access to skin health services globally.
Proposed by Côte d’Ivoire, and co-sponsored by Micronesia (Federated States of), Nigeria, Togo, China, Egypt and Colombia, the resolution, adopted by member states of the WHA on Saturday 24 May 2025 , highlights the urgent need to improve care for the more than two billion people globally living with skin diseases.
“This resolution is not only timely – it is transformative. It gives long-overdue visibility and voice to people suffering from skin diseases, which, if left untreated, can result in disability, stigma, and discrimination"
Dr Ibrahima Socé Fall, Director, Global Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) at the WHO
“The resolution’s emphasis on strengthening primary care is key to the earlier diagnosis and management of common skin diseases. This will reduce the burden on dermatologists and tertiary centres, while improving overall system resilience.”
Prof Lars French, ILDS Past President and ILDS-WHO Committee Chair
The ILDS and its member societies warn that significant investment is now required to ensure that primary healthcare systems are equipped to meet the challenge of implementing the resolution.
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“The needs of our patients are at the heart of this resolution and its implementation will significantly improve patient outcomes through early detection and more effective care. We congratulate all those who worked so hard to prepare this resolution.”
Dr Claire Fuller, Chair of the International Foundation for Dermatology.
“With skin diseases one of the top ten causes of disability globally, we urge all stakeholders to work together to ensure the resolution is implemented swiftly. The ILDS and our member societies stand ready to contribute our expertise and resources to this effort.”
Prof Henry W. Lim, ILDS President