The World Atopic Eczema Day observed September 14 every year , has been marked at Kukua,a farming community in Suhum to draw attention to the growing burden of the skin condition in Ghana.
The event, held under the global theme “Our Skin, Our Journey”, was organized by the Ark Development Organization in collaboration with the Global Skin Organization and the Ghana Health Service.
It featured float, medical screening for residents and a football match aimed at raising awareness of Atopic Eczema, also known as Atopic Dermatitis.
Speaking at the event, Elijah Teye, a Physician Assistant at the Suhum Health Center, expressed concern that many Ghanaians suffering from the condition often hide due to stigma or resort to herbal remedies without proper diagnosis.
He warned that such practices can lead to severe complications.
He said children are the most vulnerable to Atopic Eczema disease.
The Executive Director of Ark Development Organization, Emmanuel Kwarfo Minta, underscored the need for continuous community-level education to break myths and improve access to treatment for patients living with the condition.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) identifies Atopic Eczema as the most common chronic inflammatory skin disorder, affecting more than 230 million people worldwide.
It is ranked as the fourth leading cause of non-fatal disability, with children and people with skin of colour most affected.
Residents of Kukua welcomed the outreach, saying it has improved their understanding of the disease and the importance of seeking early medical care.
Health professionals are urging Ghanaians to take skin health seriously and to seek timely medical attention to reduce the complications associated with Atopic Eczema.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
