ILDS and ISD Launch First Dedicated World Skin Health Day on Monday 8 July 2024

The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) and the International Society of Dermatology (ISD) joined forces to launch the first official World Skin Health Day (#WSHD2024) on Monday 8 July 2024. Visit the link for further information.

To mark the day, six special events took place around the world to encourage discussion and spur action towards the delivery of ‘Skin Health for All’. They will serve as examples of how individuals and organisations can get involved, both this year and in future years.

About the Six Regional Events:

Europe: Hal Far, Malta

Free dermatological consultations and treatment for displaced people and vulnerable populations at migrant centres with support from cultural mediators and migrant NGOs.

Africa: Mbeya, Tanzania

The launch of a 10-day Skin Cancer Prevention Programme, providing dermatological services to individuals with albinism at the Mbeya Regional Referral hospital and at clinics throughout the Mbeya region.

North America: Canada

An in-clinic talk on ‘teen and tween’ skincare, offering education and free dermatologist-approved products to parents and children, followed by an online forum for general practitioners.

East Asia & Pacific: Australia

An online patient group forum with renowned dermatologist Dr Stephen Schumack providing a global perspective on barriers to access to dermatological care, the financial burden of skin diseases and the stigma suffered by patients. Content from the forum will inform the creation of a new report into the impact of skin diseases on patients.

West/Central/South Asia: Nepal

A national campaign including outreach clinics for vulnerable populations, education for teachers and healthcare workers, as well as stakeholder meetings and a medical education session in Kathmandu.

Latin America: Patagonia, Argentina

Free consultations and education for patients, healthcare workers, students and children at San Martín de los Andes Hospital bringing together dermatologists from Argentina and neighbouring countries.

About World Skin Health Day (WSHD)

WSHD was established in 2013 by ILDS and ISD; until this year, activities have taken place on different days in different parts of the world. 2024 marks the launch of an annual dedicated day of awareness-raising, aimed at highlighting the significant impact of skin diseases and the need for more education and increased equity of access to treatment for patients globally.

Get Involved

The ILDS and ISD have created a range of toolkits and resources for individuals and organisations interested in supporting World Skin Health Day with their own event or activity. They are available for free download on the World Skin Health Day website (worldskinday.org). While 8 July is the focus, activities can take place at any time.