November is Eczema Awareness Month and Eczema Society of Canada (ESC) is advocating for change. We need the eczema community to share their stories to help everyone understand the burden of living with eczema and to impress upon decision-makers that eczema sufferers need and deserve improved access to eczema care and treatments.
Often seen as just dry, itchy skin, eczema is a lot more
complex than that for many sufferers. From sleep
disturbance, worry, and social isolation, to rigorous
skin care routines, medical appointments, and lifestyle
modifications, eczema can take a significant toll on
sufferers, their caregivers, and loved ones.
In addition to physical symptoms like debilitating itch and pain, many sufferers also report feeling depressed, self-conscious, and anxious. Sleep and daily life are often affected.
Many sufferers report having lived without adequate treatment for a year or longer, and long wait times to specialty care and treatments for those with more severe forms of the condition mean that many Canadians are still waiting for help.
Dermatologist and ESC medical contributor Rachel Asiniwasis, MD, FRCPC, FAAD tells us, “Eczema is a public health crisis that is often underrecognized. I see many patients suffering from life-altering eczema with skin changes such as open wounds; they are not sleeping well, and often deal with secondary infections among other impacts. Trying to manage this complex condition can have a profound impact on quality of life. Continued multistakeholder efforts are needed to address these burdens and improve patient outcomes.”
The time is now for us to act. In honour of awareness month, ESC is itching to change perceptions about eczema so that it is recognized as so much more than just dry, itchy skin.
“I don’t ever feel relief.” – Tanya, eczema sufferer.
One of the most powerful tools we have to highlight the burden and priority of eczema is our stories. Stories resonate with the public and with decision-makers to improve understanding and to help affect change.
ESC volunteer and eczema sufferer Tanya graciously gave us a close look into the life of a chronic eczema sufferer.
Tanya’s story is just one of many.
Find more compelling eczema stories here.
Are you an eczema sufferer or caregiver to someone with eczema? Help us spread awareness and advocate for fair and improved access to eczema care by sharing your story. ESC will be collecting patient and caregiver stories throughout Eczema Awareness Month and sharing them to improve understanding and affect change.
Not sure where to start? No problem, we’ve got you. ESC has created resources with helpful tips to guide you along in creating your story. Sample letters are also included so you can contact your local government representatives and share your personal journey with eczema. Every voice matters!
Visit our website at eczemahelp.ca/what-can-i-do/ or contact us at info@eczemahelp.ca for help.
#ItchingForChange? Join us at The State of Eczema in Canada Webinar!
You’re invited to join us on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, from 8:00 – 8:50 p.m. ET for ESC’s webinar The State of Eczema in Canada where we’ll be bringing the community together to raise awareness and encourage action!
Register for free here.
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Learn about the different types of eczema, tips for managing flares, and more.
