Alopecia Awareness Week

This week, 12-20 November 2022 is Alopecia Areata Awareness Week. Held annually in the third week of November, this initiative aims to raise the profile of this often misunderstood skin condition and promotes ways to support friends or loved ones as they cope with the associated hair loss.  

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack the hair follicle causing inflammation around the hair root. The hair root then becomes inactive, and the hair falls out.
In general, those that develop alopecia areata have a genetic predisposition due to its autoimmune basis, although stress can also be a trigger.

Despite the visible loss of hair, it is a misconception that the hair follicle has died. In fact, it remains alive waiting for a signal to be transmitted to restart the hair growth cycle.  Unfortunately, there are usually no warning symptoms for alopecia areata, the hair simply stops growing and falls out.

Alopecia areata affects males and females equally and can develop in people of all ages, and most commonly occurs in people who are otherwise healthy.

Treatments focus on stimulating hair regrowth and include:
Topical lotions and creams
• Cortisone injections
• Irritants to activate the immune system
• Oral corticosteroids tablets
• In serious cases, immune suppressants.

As part of its services, the Skin Health Institute offers a Hair Clinic with specialist dermatologists.
We also support the Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation Inc. (AAAF), which was established to be the national body supporting research to find a cure or acceptable treatment for all forms of alopecia areata, support those with the disease and their families, and inform the public about all forms of alopecia areata.

Alopecia areata can be a lifelong condition that can deeply affect self-image, self-esteem, confidence and mental health. This week, make sure to educate yourself about this skin condition, whether it be listening to the Spot Diagnosis Podcast, watching the Institute Update from 29 June 2022 or visiting the AAAF website.

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, affects millions of individuals worldwide, including a significant number of Australians. This August, during Psoriasis Awareness Month, we aim to shed light on this prevalent condition, raise awareness, and emphasise the importance of empathy and support for those living with psoriasis.

In Australia, psoriasis is estimated to impact approximately 2-3% of the population, making it a relatively common dermatological concern. Despite its prevalence, psoriasis remains widely misunderstood, leading to misconceptions and stigmatisation among patients.

At the Skin Health Institute, we have committed our support to Psoriasis Awareness Month with a mission to create empathy and awareness for people with psoriasis and promote a better understanding of this condition. We recognise that beyond medical treatment, patients need compassionate support and understanding from their communities. Through various initiatives, we strive to foster an environment of compassion and knowledge, allowing patients to feel heard and supported as they learn to manage their condition.

Our dedication to enhancing dermatological care extends to providing the latest treatment options. Our Advanced Targeted Therapies Clinic offers cutting-edge therapies that specifically address psoriasis, tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our expert dermatologists work closely with patients to develop personalised treatment plans, empowering them to manage their condition effectively and improve their quality of life.

Education is key to unlocking progress in dermatology, so through our suite of educational resources, we seek to help health professionals to stay at the forefront of their clinical practice. Our Masterclasses, GP Workshops, Advanced Therapeutics Education Portal, and Spot Diagnosis podcast episodes provide valuable insights and updates on psoriasis management and treatment options.

As part of our commitment to advancing psoriasis research, we are actively conducting clinical trials focused on nail and body psoriasis. These trials play a crucial role in uncovering innovative treatments and improving outcomes for people with psoriasis. By participating in our clinical trials, individuals not only contribute to medical advancements but also have the opportunity to access potential breakthrough therapies.

During Psoriasis Awareness Month and beyond, we stay dedicated in the pursuit of improving patient outcomes, expanding healthcare professional knowledge and advancing treatment options.         

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