Communication from the LEO Foundation:
The Global Atopic Dermatitis Atlas (GADA), a pioneering international initiative dedicated to advancing our understanding of Atopic Dermatitis (AD), is thrilled to announce DKK 10 million grant funding support from the LEO Foundation, forming an important strategic collaboration with leading organisations: the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) and collaborating GADA partners. This support marks a significant milestone in our mission to consolidate and analyse comprehensive data on AD burden from around the world, ultimately leading to better care and support for individuals living with this challenging skin condition.
Atopic Dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, poses substantial challenges to millions of people across the globe. Characterised by inflamed and intensely itchy skin, AD often leads to sleep disturbances and reduced quality of life. This condition affects approximately 20% of children and 10% of adults in high income countries and urban areas of middle and low-income nations. According to the Global Burden of Disease data, AD ranks 15th among all nonfatal diseases and holds the first position among skin diseases globally.
The LEO Foundation will provide vital financial support to GADA, which is an initiative of the ILDS, in collaboration with the International Society of Atopic Dermatitis (ISAD), the International Eczema Council (IEC), the European Taskforce for Atopic Dermatitis (ETFAD), and the International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organizations (GlobalSkin).
Professor Carsten FLOHR, Director of GADA:
“The support from the LEO Foundation will significantly enhance our ability to continue to collect and analyse burden data on atopic dermatitis globally.
Our goal is to create a comprehensive atlas that provides critical insights into the prevalence, severity, and treatment of AD, filling the gaps in our current understanding.”
Atopic dermatitis not only affects individuals physically but also carries a significant psychological burden, including anxiety and depression. It is also associated with the development of food allergies, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and other chronic inflammatory conditions. Despite the progress made in treating severe forms of AD in recent years, there is a pressing need for accurate and uniform epidemiological data, particularly in low and middle-income settings.
Professor Henry W. LIM, ILDS President:
“The ILDS is proud to welcome the LEO Foundation as a major supporter of this crucial endeavor. Atopic dermatitis is a global health concern that requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach. The support of LEO Foundation will enable ILDS and key GADA collaborating partners to address disparities in atopic dermatitis care, enhance access to treatments, and ultimately improve the lives of those affected by this condition.”
Anne-Marie ENGEL, Chief Scientific Officer of the LEO Foundation, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to support research and initiatives that transform our understanding of skin and skin diseases, stating:
“At the LEO Foundation, we are certain that the Global Atopic Dermatitis Atlas will become an important resource for everyone seeking knowledge on the global burden of AD. We are excited to support this collaboration of international experts that have set themselves the ambitious goal of establishing a shared standard for fieldwork studies and developing digital tools to facilitate more efficient data acquisition and sharing. It is our hope that whether you are a researcher, clinician, patient, or policymaker, the Global Atopic Dermatitis Atlas will be the go-to resource for validated data on atopic dermatitis. We look very much forward to following the work and impact of GADA in the coming years.”
About the Global Atopic Dermatitis Atlas
In October 2022, GADA launched the first Global Report on Atopic Dermatitis at the ILDS World Skin Summit, offering valuable insights into the worldwide prevalence and burden of the disease. This report comprehensively summarises the disease’s impact, geographical disparities in prevalence data, treatment availability, and inequalities in access to therapeutics.
The generous commitment from the LEO Foundation signifies a significant step forward in advancing our understanding of Atopic Dermatitis, fostering greater collaboration between global stakeholders, and ultimately improving the lives of individuals affected by this chronic skin condition.
For further information or questions:
- please contact info@atopicdermatitisatlas.org
- or visit the website
