Novartis holds training program for UAE pharmacists on skin disorders

The seminar was organised by Novartis Consumer Health as part of its ongoing pharmacist training program and enabled pharmacists to gain insight from prominent local dermatologists and experts. This is turn will enable them to help pharmacy customers better through a deeper understanding of the symptoms and treatments related to skin fungal infections.

The seminar addressed a condition that is particularly common in Gulf countries. Yesterday's seminar in Sharjah was the final session in a series done in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, attracting around 500 UAE pharmacists and focusing on skin fungal infections and their treatment.

According to Dr Ibrahiem Galadari, Professor of Dermatology at UAE University, and keynote speaker at the Sharjah and Dubai seminars, "Skin fungal infections are more widespread in the Gulf region due to the hot and humid climate, which encourages fungal growth. The condition can cause great discomfort and, in some cases, disfigurement."

"People therefore need to take action to prevent the condition or to treat it if they are already infected. Ignoring the condition will only allow it to spread to other parts of the body and lead to greater irritation, and greater chances of infecting others. Prevention and treatment can be achieved through very simple measures."

The Dr Hussein Abdel Dayem, who heads the dermatology department at Al Jazerah and Central Hospital and who chaired the Abu Dhabi seminar, also urged for treatment measures. "Those suffering from skin fungal infections need to take immediate action to fight the problem. After consulting a dermatologist, the patient can use anti-fungal medication, which works very quickly and effectively to kill the fungus and relieve the condition. Sufferers can also make minor changes in their lifestyle to help fight the condition, by keeping the affected areas dry and perspiration-free as much as possible."

Practicing good hygiene can go a long way in preventing the condition. Washing directly after heavy perspiration, not sharing towels or clothes, and regularly airing feet out of closed shoes are simple things to keep in mind everyday. If infected, sufferers can effectively and quickly treat the condition with topical medication provided over the counter at most pharmacies, such as Lamisil cream or spray offered by Novartis Consumer Health. This anti-fungal treatment can eliminate the infection within one-two weeks by killing the fungus, and protect the skin from re-infection for a period of time.

Skin fungal infections are very common among all ages and affect both men and women. They can affect the skin all over the body, and are most common in areas such as the groin, arms, trunk and feet. They can be recognized by an itching, burning sensation and blistering and cracking of the affected skin. The skin can become dry, red and flaky or may become white and moist. Usually, the affected areas appear 'ringworm' shaped with a clear center and a defined border.

Although many experience these discomforts, they are not aware that these are symptoms of skin fungal infections, and do not take any action to treat it or prevent infection to others. The most commonly affected area is the skin on the feet, which gives rise to the well-known condition of Athlete's Foot.

The infection can come from contact with soil, with house pets such as dogs and cats, or through contact or sharing toiletries with infected others.