Activities

Linapacan, Palawan, the Philippines

Project TOUCH brought specialist skin care to the remote island community of Linapacan, where access to dermatology is limited. Nine dermatologists and 39 healthcare workers delivered free consultations and minor procedures for 163 patients, while more than 130 local health workers and volunteers were trained to recognise and manage common skin conditions. Working closely with local government and supported by national media outreach, the programme strengthened long-term capacity and improved access to skin health care in this isolated setting.

Arba Minch, Gamo Zone, Ethiopia

A community-wide skin health campaign delivered vital dermatology care to rural and underserved populations across the Gamo Zone. Four dermatologists and 10 healthcare workers provided screening and treatment for more than 500 patients, while 12 health workers received training to strengthen local services. Supported by universities, professional societies, and regional government, the programme reached over 25,000 people through outreach and media, raising awareness and embedding skin health as a visible public health priority.

Khulna District, Bangladesh

A mobile dermatology programme reached climate-displaced communities in flood-prone Khulna, where poverty and environmental stress have driven high levels of untreated skin disease. Ten dermatologists and six healthcare workers provided free diagnosis and treatment to 1,083 patients, many with infectious, inflammatory, and occupational skin conditions. Delivered in partnership with the Bangladesh Academy of Dermatology and local health authorities, the campaign also raised national awareness of climate-related skin health and helped lay the groundwork for future teledermatology services.

Cali, Colombia

An innovative, culturally focused skin health programme brought together dermatologists and Afro-Colombian community leaders to celebrate identity while improving care. Ten dermatologists delivered 60 free hair and scalp consultations and workshops, reaching 80 Afro-Colombian women and training 50 dermatology residents in culturally sensitive practice. Led by local partners and amplified through social media, the programme strengthened knowledge, confidence, and access to dermatology within the Afro-Colombian community.

Kano State, Nigeria

A multi-partner skin health campaign delivered vital dermatology services to underserved and displaced communities across Kano. Fifteen dermatologists and 20 healthcare workers provided free consultations and treatment to 1,264 patients in three IDP camps, alongside skin disease education for more than 1,200 people. Supported by the Ministry of Health and extensive radio and TV coverage, the campaign raised public awareness, reduced stigma, and strengthened local commitment to skin health as a public priority.

Milwaukee, USA & Bagamoyo, Tanzania

A unique transcontinental collaboration linked underserved communities in the U.S. and Tanzania through shared skin health action. Twenty-five dermatologists and 53 healthcare workers provided free screenings and care for 169 patients, while training 30 health workers and educating more than 550 community members. By pairing local outreach with professional exchange, the programme strengthened services and built lasting connections between dermatology teams on two continents.

Athens, Greece & Malta

A cross-border initiative brought dermatology care to migrants, refugees, and homeless communities across Greece and Malta. Nine dermatologists and 12 healthcare workers delivered free consultations and health education for 164 vulnerable patients, while training residents and frontline providers. Working with governments, NGOs, and UN agencies, the campaign improved access to care and promoted skin health as a fundamental part of universal healthcare.

Belém, Pará State, Northern Brazil

A targeted leprosy detection and care programme reached underserved communities in northern Brazil, where the disease remains a serious public health challenge. Seven dermatologists, supported by residents and medical students, examined more than 300 people, diagnosing 10 new cases and reconnecting six individuals to treatment. Backed by public health authorities and local media, the campaign strengthened early detection, reduced stigma, and helped prevent long-term complications.