There are several organizations that are involved in education, advocacy, awareness, and research for atopic dermatitis. (Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. These organizations provide opportunities for people with eczema to connect with each other and get involved
National Eczema Association
The National Eczema Association (NEA) is a non-profit organization in the U.S. that began in 1988. Their mission is to improve the health and quality of life for individuals with eczema through research, support, and education. The NEA is also involved in advocacy efforts.
- Research: Since 2004, NEA has issued over $250,000 in medical research grants
- Support: NEA provides support through their website (www.nationaleczema.org), by telephone, email, and local support groups around the country. They have a quarterly newsletter, holds an annual eczema patient conference (Eczema Expo), and organizes an annual Children’s Conference Camp.
- Education: NEA works to create awareness of the heavy burden of eczema on individuals, their families, and societies. NEA is the driving force behind October as National Eczema Awareness Month and has created programs for patients and physicians to improve life with eczema.
- Advocacy: NEA advocates on behalf of people with eczema to ensure treatment access and affordability.
American Academy of Dermatology
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) is the largest, most influential dermatology group in the U.S. It was founded in 1938 and has a membership of more than 19,000 dermatologists. The mission of AAD is to promote leadership in dermatology and excellence in patient care through education, research, and advocacy. AAD offers a wealth of information about atopic dermatitis for patients and physicians on its website (www.aad.org). The AAD advocates on behalf of its members and dermatology patients, and it funds research through a variety of awards, grants, and scholarships. The AAD also offers summer camps for children living with skin conditions including atopic dermatitis (www.aad.org/public/kids/camp-discovery).
International Eczema Council
The International Eczema Council (IEC) is a global non-profit organization led by dermatology experts on eczema. IEC is dedicated to increasing the understanding of eczema and promoting optimal management of the condition through research, education, and patient/family care. IEC provides educational information for patients and medical professionals through its website (www.eczemacouncil.org).
National Eczema Society
The National Eczema Society is a charity in England, Wales, and Scotland that is dedicated to improving the lives of people with eczema. They offer regional support groups and provide educational information about treating and managing eczema on their website (www.eczema.org).