A collaborative effort between LEO Pharma UK, Allergy UK, and healthcare professionals has shed light on the profound impact of Chronic Hand Eczema (CHE) on individuals across the UK. This research, involving extensive interviews and surveys, underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness and improved support systems for those grappling with this debilitating condition.
Physical and Emotional Burden
Participants in the study described the relentless physical toll of CHE, marked by persistent itch, pain, dryness, and cracked skin, which severely disrupts their daily activities. One respondent vividly expressed the constant struggle: “It feels like my hands are constantly burning or itchy. I can feel it all the time. It also feels like I can’t do much with them in fear I’ll make it worse.”
Moreover, the visibility of CHE exacerbates emotional distress, with over 50% of respondents reporting feelings of anxiety, embarrassment, or anger. One participant lamented feeling insecure and self-conscious, noting, “I feel ashamed, as if people think I have a disease or I’m disgusting.”
Unique Challenges of Hand Eczema
The study revealed that despite many participants also experiencing eczema on other body parts, 94% agreed that CHE posed greater challenges. This sentiment is largely due to the constant necessity of using their hands, a sentiment strongly echoed by 75% of respondents.
Healthcare Communication and Delayed Support
Alarmingly, only 14% of surveyed individuals reported being asked about the emotional impact of their CHE by healthcare providers. This lack of communication underscores a critical gap in understanding and addressing the holistic impact of allergies and skin conditions.
Another concerning finding was the significant delay in seeking healthcare support, with respondents enduring symptoms for a median of 8 years before seeking professional help. Reasons for this delay included beliefs that symptoms weren’t severe enough or reluctance to seek attention.
Call for Action
Simone Miles, CEO of Allergy UK, emphasized the importance of early intervention and comprehensive support systems: “No one should be suffering in silence. We need greater provision of services at primary care levels – from GPs recognizing symptoms effectively to providing timely and effective patient pathways.”
Conclusion
This study advocates for heightened awareness and support for individuals grappling with CHE, stressing the critical need for healthcare providers to recognize and address both the physical symptoms and emotional toll of this condition. Education initiatives for healthcare professionals and improved accessibility to early intervention are pivotal in enhancing the quality of life for those affected by CHE across the UK.
