Grand Challenges in Global Skin Health

The Grand Challenges in Global Skin Health initiative was put forth in 2015, with key objectives outlined in this article published on behalf of the ILDS Board of Directors and the Grand Challenges Consultation groups (The global challenge for skin health). This project is a concerted effort by the ILDS to address the significant burden of skin diseases worldwide. It focuses on research, education, clinical application, and support at local, national and international levels. This initiative aims to improve the lives of individuals affected by skin disorders through targeted actions, multidisciplinary collaboration and the formation of international alliances to address specific issues.

In October 2025, the British Journal of Dermatology published a new article revisiting the Grand Challenges and highlighting the work of the Global Atlases, which are helping to close data gaps and strengthen evidence for better skin health worldwide.

A decade on from the launch of the Grand Challenges, skin health has now been officially recognised by the World Health Assembly as a global public health priority — a landmark moment for dermatology. With these four Global Atlases, and through continued collaboration, we can make a real difference to the lives of millions of people around the world. Read the article in the British Journal of Dermatology.