Novartis partners with Kuwait Society of Dermatologists to transform chronic skin care

KUWAIT – Novartis, a global leader in innovative medicines, has entered into a strategic partnership with the Kuwait Society of Dermatologists to transform dermatological care in Kuwait.

This collaboration aims to address major challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic skin conditions, specifically Psoriasis, Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), and Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU).

These three diseases, while each unique in their clinical presentation, share a common thread: they are chronic, inflammatory, and can have a profound impact on patients’ quality of life.

Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune disorder that leads to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin, often causing discomfort and sometimes covering large areas of the body.

It is estimated that between 1% and 3% of people in Gulf countries are affected by psoriasis.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa, more common among women and frequently undiagnosed, is marked by recurring, painful lumps beneath the skin.

These nodules can become inflamed, rupture, and eventually lead to scarring.

Meanwhile, Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria is characterized by hives that persist for six weeks or longer, affecting about 0.5% to 1% of the global population.

 These hives can appear without an obvious trigger, causing significant itching and discomfort.

Beyond the physical symptoms, these conditions often take a toll on mental health.

Many patients experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation, highlighting the need for timely, compassionate, and comprehensive care.

Recognizing these challenges, the partnership between Novartis and the Kuwait Society of Dermatologists is focused on several key areas.

First, the collaboration will prioritize public and healthcare professional education, aiming to raise awareness about these diseases and their impact.

By improving understanding among both the general population and medical professionals, the partners hope to bridge diagnostic gaps and ensure that patients receive faster, more accurate diagnoses.

Dr. Atlal Allafi, President of the Kuwait Society of Dermatologists, emphasized that the partnership is committed to breaking down barriers to care.

The goal is to empower patients to recognize symptoms earlier and support physicians in making timely diagnoses.

By accelerating diagnosis and improving access to effective treatments, the partnership seeks to enhance patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Rabab Monir, Country Operations Head for Novartis in Kuwait, expressed pride in joining forces with the Kuwait Society of Dermatologists.

She highlighted that the collaboration is driven by a shared mission to transform the future of medicine in Kuwait, creating a healthcare environment where early intervention and personalized treatment lead to better patient outcomes.

The Kuwait Society of Dermatologists, a professional organization dedicated to advancing skin health through education, research, and public awareness, plays a crucial role in this initiative.

Committed to the highest standards of medical ethics and excellence, the society fosters collaboration among dermatologists, encouraging the exchange of knowledge and best practices.

Dr. Abeer Albazali, Vice President of the society, noted that the partnership empowers local dermatologists to move from dialogue to action, bringing global breakthroughs to life through solutions tailored to the needs of Kuwaiti patients.

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