HS Awareness Week: Shining a Light on Hidradenitis Suppurativa

• By Admin
• June 10, 2025

Every year, the first week of June marks Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) Awareness Week — a vital global initiative aimed at educating, connecting, and advocating for those affected by this chronic skin condition.

At Crescent Wound Care, we proudly join hands with healthcare professionals, organizations, and patients across the globe to raise awareness about HS and to push for improved care, timely diagnosis, and support.

What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by painful lumps under the skin, typically occurring in areas where skin rubs together — such as the armpits, groin, inner thighs, and buttocks.

These bumps can become infected, rupture, and form tunnels under the skin, causing long-term discomfort and emotional distress. The condition is often misdiagnosed or misunderstood, leading to delayed treatment and reduced quality of life for many individuals.

Focus of HS Awareness Week

HS Awareness Week is about much more than just information — it’s about empowerment. The key goals include:

1. Raising public awareness about HS
2. Connecting people living with HS through support networks
3. Educating healthcare providers and caregivers
4. Advocating for more research and better treatment access

Global Efforts in HS Advocacy

One of the most impactful efforts comes from the Global Hidradenitis Suppurativa Atlas (GHiSA), an ILDS initiative. Their work includes:

1. Publishing a Global Report on HS
2. Conducting a global prevalence study to better understand HS burden worldwide
3. Promoting international collaboration to improve healthcare interventions

These efforts aim to offer data-driven insights that can shape health policies and improve care pathways for those with HS.

Support, Resources, and Community

During HS Awareness Week, support groups, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations play a key role in offering:

1. Educational materials on managing HS
2. Online seminars and webinars featuring dermatologists and specialists
3. Community meetups and virtual support groups
4. Social media campaigns to share stories, raise visibility, and fight stigma

These resources are crucial for empowering individuals with HS and reminding them they are not alone.

Why Awareness Matters

HS is often underdiagnosed, with many patients going years without a clear answer or effective treatment. This can result in:

1. Delays in treatment
2. Mental health impacts
3. Barriers to daily living and work

By increasing awareness, we take steps to reduce stigma, improve early diagnosis, and advocate for better care and research funding.