Sidemast launches national awareness campaign for hidradenitis suppurativa

The Italian Society of Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (Sidemast) has launched a national awareness campaign titled ‘Scritto sulla pelle’ (Written on the Skin) to address hidradenitis suppurativa (Hs). The initiative aims to help adults recognize the signs of this often-underestimated condition and encourage timely consultation with dermatologists.

Running from November 2 to November 13, the campaign offers free dermatological consultations by appointment at 13 university hospital centers across Italy, including cities such as Milan, Rome, Naples, Florence, and Palermo. To participate, individuals can complete an online pre-screening questionnaire on the Sidemast website. Those approved for booking will receive a personal code and instructions to contact a dedicated toll-free number to verify availability.

Giovanni Pellacani, President of Sidemast and Professor of Dermatology at Sapienza University of Rome, emphasized that the campaign seeks to facilitate meetings with experts, noting that early diagnosis is crucial to managing the disease before symptoms worsen.