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WHO Adds Biologics for Psoriasis and Sunscreen for Albinism to Essential Medicines List

11 Sep 2025

Decision marks a historic milestone for dermatology, improving access to lifesaving and life-enhancing interventions worldwide

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Expert Committee on the Selection and Use of Essential Medicines has taken a historic step for dermatology and global health equity by adding biologics adalimumab and ustekinumab to the latest update to the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (EML). The Committee also approved the addition of therapeutic broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+), specifically to protect people with albinism who face disproportionately high risks of UV-related skin damage and skin cancer.

We are also thrilled to report that, following an application made by the International Society of Atopic Dermatitis, supported by ILDS and other global partners, Urea- and Glycerol-based Moisturizers were also approved and added to the EML.

EML2025

Read the full WHO selection and use of essential medicines 2025 executive summary reports now

Read the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 24th List, 2025
ILDS Migrant Health Symposium 2023_Chris Griffiths

The decision by the WHO to place adalimumab and ustekinumab biologic therapies on their essential medicines list for adults and children with psoriasis means that many thousands of people with psoriasis, wherever they may live in the world, now have access to these powerful and effective medicines. Prof Christopher Griffiths, Director, Global Psoriasis Atlas and Special Advisor to ILDS on Global Health Research and Policy

Biologics for Psoriasis

The decision to add the biologics used in the treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis, to the EML and the EML for children (EMLc), has been made by the Committee to help address an important public health need, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, by supporting greater access to effective, safe, and affordable treatment for psoriasis. This condition, which causes red, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales, affects more than 60 million people worldwide. globalpsoriasisatlas.org

The applications for adalimumab and ustekinumab were submitted by the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS), with support from ILDS members, the International Psoriasis Council and dermatology and global patient societies. The Committee also highlighted that quality-assured biosimilars should be considered as therapeutic alternatives.

Sunscreen for people with Albinism

The Committee’s approval of the addition of therapeutic broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+) to the EML and EMLc, will benefit many thousands of individuals with albinism. Those living in sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, are up to 1,000 times more likely than the general population to develop squamous cell carcinoma of sun-exposed skin. Lekalakala et al., Journal of Skin Cancer, 2015

The application for broad-spectrum sunscreen was led by the UN Independent Expert on the enjoyment of rights by persons with albinism, the Global Albinism Alliance, and the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Context of Climate Change, with strong support from ILDS and multiple global partners.

Harvey Lui - WCD Van194 updated

"Sunscreens are an absolutely critical tool for protecting the skin from the harmful immediate and long-term effects of solar radiation. This is especially important for individuals with albinism who are at extreme risk for skin cancer because they lack sufficient natural skin protection." Prof Harvey Lui, ILDS Past-President and Special Advisor

According to the ILDS, the inclusion of both psoriasis biologics and sunscreen for albinism represents a breakthrough in access to effective, safe and affordable treatment options, advancing life-saving and life-improving interventions and reinforcing skin health as a global public health priority.

Prof Lars French, ILDS Immediate Past President and Chair of the ILDS-WHO Committee, said:

Lars French_Headshot

“This achievement goes far beyond the addition of new medicines to a list, it represents a recognition that skin health is integral to universal health coverage and global health equity. By bringing both psoriasis biologics and sunscreen for albinism onto the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, the WHO is signalling that these are not optional interventions, but essential tools that can transform lives.” Prof Lars French, ILDS Immediate Past President and Chair of the ILDS-WHO Committee

Prof Henry W. Lim, ILDS President, added:

Henry Lim_Headshot

“For the ILDS, this historic decision highlights the importance of continuing to collaborate with the WHO, our member societies and partners to ensure that these global decisions lead to real improvements in care, particularly in underserved communities. It is through steps like this that we move closer to our vision of ‘Skin Health for the World." Prof Henry W. Lim, ILDS President

What is the Essential Medicines List?

The WHO's Essential Medicines List (EML) is a global guide to help countries ensure that the most effective, safe, and affordable medicines for priority health needs are always available and accessible. The EML is updated every two years and includes over 500 medicines, with a separate list for children. It serves as a basis for public sector procurement, supply of medicines and health insurance.