Health Minister opens one of "Gadn" events to raise awareness of atopic dermatitis

Abdulkarim Al-Abdullah

Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Owaidi inaugurated one of the events of the “Ghadan” awareness campaign organized by the Kuwaiti Dermatologists Association at The Avenues Mall. The campaign, which has been ongoing since the beginning of the current month, aims to raise awareness about atopic dermatitis and support patients and their families.

During his tour, Dr. Al-Owaidi reviewed the awareness activities on display and listened to a presentation on the campaign’s objectives, its educational programs, and the efforts made to disseminate reliable medical information regarding atopic dermatitis.

For her part, Dr. Abeer Al-Badali, President of the Association, stated that the campaign aims to spread awareness about this type of disease, provide reliable medical information, support patients and their families, and educate them on how to manage its symptoms.

Dr. Al-Badali explained that the campaign covers an introduction to atopic dermatitis, its symptoms, and ways to live with the condition. It also highlights the diagnostic tests and treatment options a physician may consider, while correcting misconceptions and inaccurate information associated with the disease.

She noted that the campaign includes several awareness booths, including a “Myth or Fact” booth to correct common misconceptions, booths addressing certain practices and cosmetic products, a dedicated booth on available treatments, and another focusing on irritants that may exacerbate eczema symptoms.

She pointed out that irritants vary from patient to patient, as not all cases are identical, and urged patients to monitor and identify the factors that worsen their symptoms in order to avoid them as much as possible.

Dr. Al-Badali defined atopic dermatitis as an immune-mediated disease characterized by red patches accompanied by itching and dryness. She noted that it typically alternates between active and remission phases, and that triggering factors can vary by individual and season. For some, symptoms worsen with dryness and heat, while for others, they may flare up during winter due to dryness.

She added that atopic dermatitis affects all age groups and both men and women, emphasizing that the campaign also aims to educate families on how to care for children affected by the disease.

She stressed that the condition can impact the patient’s quality of life, particularly sleep, concentration, and productivity, due to itching and associated symptoms.

Regarding treatment, Dr. Al-Badali clarified that treatments are available through the Ministry of Health and are selected based on the patient’s condition, age, and needs. She emphasized the importance of consulting a specialized dermatologist to determine the appropriate treatment.

She added that treatment options include topical treatments and creams, phototherapy using ultraviolet light, other therapies, and modern biologic treatments, confirming that the latest therapeutic creams are available in Kuwait.

Concerning the expansion of specialized dermatology clinics, Dr. Al-Badali affirmed that dermatology departments are available in Ministry of Health hospitals across all governorates of Kuwait, alongside specialized clinics. She noted that Asaad Al-Hamad Hospital has received international recognition in the field of atopic eczema, reflecting the high level of specialized services provided in this area.