Skin Health on the World Stage: We’re Speaking Up for You

Every day, we hear from individuals and families living with the daily challenges of eczema – the constant itch, pain, sleepless nights, emotional toll, and ongoing costs.  It’s exhausting, overwhelming and often invisible to those not living it.

That’s why we’ve taken your voices to the global stage.

Why now?

This month, global health leaders will gather at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) to vote on a landmark resolution that could change the future of skin health for millions.

Resolution 78: Skin Diseases as a Global Public Health Priority is a call for the World Health Organisation to:

• Develop a Global Action Plan for all skin diseases
• Improve healthcare provider training and diagnostic capacity
• Promote research into new and affordable treatements
• Address the mental health and social impacts of skin disease
• Strengthen health systems and ensure equitable access to care

Why it matters to Australians with eczema

Our own national data paints a stark picture:

• Nearly 3 million Australians live with eczema – including 1 in 3 children aged 6 or under
• Adults with eczema are three times more likely to experience depression, and 1 in 5 have considered suicide
• Families face over $1.5 billion in annual out-of-pocket costs
• Many are stuck in a treatment maze due to a shortage of dermatologists and limited GP training

Skin health isn’t just a cosmetic issue – it’s a human rights and health equity issue.

What Eczema Support Australia has don

We’ve written directly to:

• The Minister for Health
• Australia’s Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva
• The Department of Health and Aged Care

to urge Australia to vot YES to Resolution 78 at WHA78.

We are proud to stand with the global patient community, led by GlobalSkin, to push for real change.

What You Can Do

1. Spread the word – Share this blog or talk about why skin health matters.
2. Use the hastag #SkinDiseasesResolution on social media.
3. Contact your local MP and tell them you want skin health prioritised.

Together, we can help build a future where no one is left behind because of their skin.