The WHO EML Secretariat invites interested stakeholders to submit comments on the A-30 application.
The deadline for submission of comments is Friday 18 April 2025, 18h00 CEST (Zürich time).
➜ Comments should be provided by via email to emlsecretariat@who.int in PDF format and must clearly reference the application A-30.
➜ Comments received will be published on the meeting webpage and will be provided to the Expert Committee for their consideration.
Info and examples of text, and examples for specific groups of supporters
General Support Message:
I strongly support the inclusion of low-cost emollients, specifically 5% urea and 15–20% glycerol creams, on the WHO Essential Medicines List (EML). These moisturizers are critical for managing atopic dermatitis (AD), particularly in low-resource settings where access to basic dermatological care is severely limited.
Emphasizing the Public Health Need:
Dermatologists in the WHO-AFRO region report significant challenges in accessing affordable moisturizers for AD treatment. Without proper emollient therapy, patients—especially children—face unnecessary suffering, sleep disturbances, and increased risk of secondary infections such as impetigo and cellulitis. Including these emollients on the EML will directly improve patient outcomes and reduce preventable complications.
Highlighting Clinical Guidelines & Cost-Effectiveness
International guidelines recommend moisturizers as a first-line treatment for AD, alongside topical corticosteroids. However, access to quality-assured, affordable formulations remains a major barrier in low-resource settings. Recognizing 5% urea and 15–20% glycerol creams as essential medicines will facilitate equitable access and ensure cost-effective AD management globally.
Advocating for WHO Action
To support equitable dermatological care worldwide, I urge the WHO committee to approve this application and add 5% urea and 15–20% glycerol moisturizers to the core EML. This small yet impactful step can significantly improve the quality of life for millions affected by AD, particularly in underserved regions.
For Policymakers & WHO Committee Members
Ensuring equitable access to affordable dermatological care is a public health priority. The inclusion of 5% urea and 15–20% glycerol creams in the WHO Essential Medicines List (EML) will provide a cost-effective solution for managing atopic dermatitis (AD), a condition affecting millions worldwide. In low-resource settings, untreated AD leads to preventable complications, including severe infections and hospitalizations. This application is based on strong clinical evidence, cost-effectiveness, and urgent needs expressed by dermatologists in the WHO-AFRO region. We urge the WHO to take this essential step toward improving global dermatological health.
For Healthcare Professionals & Medical Societies
As healthcare professionals, we witness firsthand the burden of atopic dermatitis (AD) on patients, particularly in underserved communities. Moisturizers are a cornerstone of AD management, but access to affordable, high-quality formulations remains limited. We support the inclusion of 5% urea and 15–20% glycerol creams in the WHO EML to ensure patients receive effective, evidence-based care. This decision will enhance treatment accessibility, reduce complications, and improve patient outcomes globally.
For Patient Advocacy Groups
Millions of people with atopic dermatitis (AD) struggle daily with itching, discomfort, and stigma—especially in regions where access to basic skin care is limited. The inclusion of 5% urea and 15–20% glycerol moisturizers in the WHO Essential Medicines List (EML) would make a life-changing difference for patients who currently lack access to effective, affordable treatment. We urge patient advocacy groups to support this initiative by sharing real-life testimonies and raising awareness of the urgent need for these essential products.
For NGOs & Public Health Organizations
In resource-limited settings, untreated atopic dermatitis (AD) is not just a skin condition—it can lead to severe infections, hospitalizations, and significant quality-of-life reductions. Moisturizers are a fundamental part of AD management, yet they remain out of reach for many. We strongly support the addition of 5% urea and 15–20% glycerol creams to the WHO Essential Medicines List (EML) to ensure equitable access to safe and effective treatment. We call on global health organizations to join us in advocating for this critical inclusion.
For Industry & Pharmaceutical Stakeholders
The global dermatology community recognizes the need for affordable, high-quality moisturizers to support the effective treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). The inclusion of 5% urea and 15–20% glycerol creams in the WHO Essential Medicines List (EML) will help streamline production, distribution, and regulatory approval of these essential products, ensuring accessibility for patients in low-resource settings. We encourage industry leaders to support this effort by contributing to the discussion and advocating for equitable access to dermatological care.